Three people have been arrested in Nairobi in connection with a suspected online sexual exploitation operation after detectives rescued five women who were allegedly being held at a house in Mihang’o, Embakasi East Constituency.
In a statement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said officers from the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) conducted an intelligence-led operation that led to the rescue of the women, who were found confined in two bedrooms within the premises.
According to the DCI, preliminary investigations indicate that the victims had been recruited with promises of legitimate employment but were instead allegedly forced to produce online sexual content for commercial exploitation.
The agency said a search of the house resulted in the recovery of several items believed to have been used in the suspected operation. The recovered items were documented and will form part of the investigation.
The three suspects were identified as Morine Imbaali, 43, who police identified as the owner of the premises; Barbara Okoyo, 24, who investigators allege recruited the victims; and Alfred Okelo, 30, who police allege maintained the computer systems used in the operation.
The DCI said the three were taken to Kasarani Police Station, where they remain in custody pending processing and arraignment.
According to investigators, the suspects are expected to face charges under the Counter-Trafficking in Persons Act, No. 8 of 2010, including trafficking in persons contrary to Section 3(1)(d), as read together with Section 3(5), as well as other offences that may arise from the investigation.
The allegations against the suspects have not been tested in court, and they remain presumed innocent unless and until proven guilty.
The DCI said arrangements have been made to ensure the rescued women receive immediate protection and support.
“Arrangements are being made to provide the five rescued women with safe, appropriate shelter and comprehensive holistic support services, including psychosocial counselling and medical care, to ensure their safety, dignity and successful reintegration,” the agency said.
The operation forms part of ongoing efforts by the Transnational Organized Crime Unit to investigate offences linked to human trafficking and online exploitation.
The DCI has also urged members of the public, particularly job seekers, to exercise caution when responding to employment opportunities advertised by individuals or organisations whose credentials cannot be independently verified.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations cautions job seekers to exercise vigilance when responding to employment offers, particularly those from unverified recruiters, as criminal networks continue to exploit vulnerable individuals through false promises of lucrative jobs,” the DCI said.
Authorities have not disclosed the identities of the rescued women in line with legal and ethical protections for suspected victims of trafficking and sexual exploitation.
Investigations remain ongoing as detectives seek to establish the full extent of the suspected operation, identify any additional victims, and determine whether other individuals were involved.