A shocking Sh3.8 million fake mercury scam has landed three suspects in court after a Kenyan investor was allegedly conned through a staged high-value commodity deal. The case, now before the Milimani Law Courts, highlights the growing trend of fake mineral and mercury trading fraud in Kenya.
Authorities are warning the public to be extra careful when approached with “rare commodity” investment opportunities promising quick profits.
🚨 How the Fake Mercury Deal Worked
According to investigators, the victim was approached in December 2025 and introduced to what appeared to be a lucrative mercury trading business.
To make the deal look real:
She was persuaded to travel to Mombasa
A staged trading setup was prepared
A bottle said to contain mercury was displayed
The product was later confirmed to be fake
The entire operation is believed to have been a planned con scheme
Investigators say the suspects used convincing demonstrations and urgent deal terms to build trust and push for payment.
💰 How the Victim Lost Sh3.8 Million
Court documents show the victim made payments through:
📲 M-Pesa transfers
💵 Cash payments
The money was described as fees for the mercury consignment and processing. No legitimate commodity shipment existed.
Fraud experts note that fake mercury and fake gold deals are increasingly being used to target investors looking for high returns.
👥 Suspects Charged and Released on Bail
The three accused persons are:
Lewis Olemanyasi alias Godana Hamisi
Iren Mueni Antony
Joseph Mutua Maingi
They are charged with:
Obtaining money by false pretences
All three pleaded not guilty and were released on:
Cash bail — Sh500,000
Bond — Sh800,000
📅 Pre-trial is set for 19th February 2026.
⚠️ Public Warning Over Commodity Investment Scams in Kenya
Authorities are urging Kenyans to verify all high-value investment and commodity deals before sending money. Warning signs include:
Promises of guaranteed profits
Pressure to pay quickly
Secretive mineral or mercury deals
Demonstrations without certified testing
Requests for M-Pesa deposits
