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A multi-agency security operation along the Thika-Garissa Highway has led to the recovery of fake Sh6 million, dealing a significant blow to an alleged counterfeit money distribution network.
Detectives say the suspects were intercepted at a security roadblock in Kanyonyoo while travelling from Thika towards Kithimani.
Officers stopped the vehicle for a routine inspection before conducting what the agency described as a meticulous search.
The search uncovered a white carrier bag hidden inside the vehicle.
The bag contained four tightly wrapped bundles concealed beneath layers of khaki paper, aluminium foil and clear tape.
Upon opening the packages, investigators recovered counterfeit Sh1,000 notes neatly arranged in four bundles with a combined face value of Sh6 million.
In a statement, the DCI said preliminary investigations suggest the fake currency was destined for Wamunyu in Kitui county, where it was to be handed over to another individual for further processing before being released into circulation.
"What appeared to be an ordinary journey along the Thika-Garissa Highway ended abruptly after a multi-agency security team manning a roadblock at Kanyonyoo intercepted two suspects transporting counterfeit currency with a face value of Sh6 million," the DCI said.
The agency said the recovered notes had been carefully concealed in an apparent attempt to evade detection.
"Upon unwrapping the bundles, officers recovered counterfeit Sh1,000 notes neatly packed into four bundles, with a combined face value of Sh6 million," the statement said.
The two suspects were taken into custody and escorted to Kanyonyoo police station, where they were booked together with the recovered exhibits.
They are currently being processed ahead of their planned arraignment in court as investigations continue to establish whether other individuals were involved in the alleged counterfeit currency syndicate.
The DCI said detectives are pursuing additional leads to identify the wider network behind the production, processing and intended distribution of the fake notes.
The agency warned that counterfeit currency remains a serious economic crime with far-reaching consequences for businesses and ordinary citizens.
Fake banknotes can undermine public confidence in the country's financial system, disrupt legitimate trade and leave unsuspecting members of the public facing financial losses after unknowingly accepting counterfeit cash.
"Counterfeit currency poses a serious threat to the economy by undermining public confidence in financial transactions and exposing unsuspecting members of the public to significant losses.
The DCI remains steadfast in dismantling criminal networks involved in currency counterfeiting and other forms of economic crime," the agency said.
The DCI has also appealed to members of the public to remain vigilant when handling cash and to report any suspected cases of counterfeit currency or other economic crimes through its anonymous reporting channels as security agencies intensify efforts to dismantle criminal enterprises across the country.
