🚨 CCTV Scam Hits Mbale: Traders Lose Thousands to Fake Technicians

18 Mar 2026 6 min read By vihiga times

Business in Mbale town, Vihiga County, has been shaken after more than 30 traders fell victim to a well-organized fraud scheme. The victims, most of them small business owners, have lost tens of thousands of shillings in what appears to be a carefully planned operation.

According to reports, a group of about 40 individuals moved around Mbale posing as professional CCTV technicians. To appear genuine, they wore reflector jackets and carried themselves like trained experts. They split into smaller groups and visited different shops, targeting traders with an attractive offer — installing CCTV cameras that could be monitored directly from their mobile phones.

Many traders, eager to improve security in their businesses, listened to their pitch.

"They looked very convincing and explained everything clearly. You could not easily doubt them," one trader said.

The Trap is Set

The suspects would then ask for the trader's phone, claiming they wanted to demonstrate how the CCTV system works. This is where the trap was set.

One of the victims, Mr. Samuel Mudaki, who runs a welding business, shared his experience after losing Ksh. 40,000.

"They came to my workshop and explained how the system works. When I told them I was not ready for installation, they asked for my phone so they could demonstrate," he said.

After handing over his phone, the suspects left shortly after. Everything seemed normal — until hours later.

"About four hours later, I received a message that Ksh. 40,000 had been sent from my account to an unknown number," Mudaki added.

Investigation Underway

Shocked and confused, he rushed to Mbale Police Station, only to find many other traders reporting the same incident. The realization quickly spread — this was not a single case, but a coordinated scam.

Preliminary investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) revealed that the stolen money was transferred to a mobile number registered in Nairobi. However, no arrests have been made so far, and the victims say they are frustrated by the lack of progress in recovering their money.

"We have reported, but nothing much has happened. We just want justice and our money back," another trader said.

⚠️ How You Can Protect Yourself from Such Scams

This incident is a serious warning to all business owners and even ordinary phone users. These fraudsters are becoming smarter — and anyone can be a target.

📱 1. Never Give Out Your Phone

Your phone holds your money and personal information. Never hand it over to a stranger — no matter how convincing they sound. If someone needs to "demonstrate" something, let them use their own device.

🪪 2. Always Verify Identity

Before allowing anyone to install or sell anything to you: Ask for official identification. Confirm the company they claim to represent. Call the company directly if possible. Real professionals will not fear verification.

⚡ 3. Avoid Rushed Decisions

Scammers often create urgency so you don't think clearly. "Install now" or "limited offer" is a common trick — don't fall for it. Take your time. A genuine deal will still be there tomorrow.

🔐 4. Secure Your Mobile Money

Keep your PIN secret at all times. Do not share verification codes. Lock your phone when not in use. Activate transaction alerts.

🚔 5. Report Suspicious Activity Immediately

If you notice anything unusual: Contact your mobile money provider quickly. Report to the nearest police station. The faster you act, the higher the chance of stopping the transaction.