Authorities have uncovered a fraudulent recruitment scheme targeting Kenyan job seekers seeking employment in Oman. The investigation involved three individuals:
Jeneffer, Matilda, and Caroline, who were allegedly recruited through an unlicensed intermediary using forged government documents.
According to the Ministry of Labour Cabinet Secretary Dr. Alfred Mutua, the recruitment operation bypassed legal migration protocols, exposing the job seekers to potential exploitation.
The investigation revealed that the individuals were in contact with an unlicensed agent identified as Elijah’s Ticketing Tours, reachable at +254100751195. The agent claimed to facilitate direct hires and ticketing but admitted he had no recruitment license.
The scheme reportedly involved a supposed foreign recruiter, Mr. Mohamed, based in Oman, and an alleged government liaison named Mr. Raphael, who was cited as responsible for labour clearance and contract attestation. However, verification with the Ministry’s Attestation Department confirmed that no officer by that name exists, and the official stamps used on the recruitment documents were forged.
Further checks revealed that the work visas for the three job seekers did not exist in the Oman e-Visa Portal, highlighting the seriousness of the deception. The Ministry emphasized that the lack of engagement with a registered Kenyan recruitment agency left the job seekers vulnerable to this scam.
“This operation is a clear example of illegal migration and document forgery. Those involved should surrender to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations before summons are issued to track and arrest them.” said Mutua
The Ministry urged all job seekers to exercise caution when seeking employment abroad. Verification of recruitment agencies can be done via the National Employment Authority portal at neaims.go.ke, by calling the toll-free numbers 0800 222 223 or 020 861 0000, or emailing cs@labour.go.ke.
This case serves as a stark reminder of the growing risk of exploitation for Kenyans seeking jobs overseas through unregulated channels. Authorities continue to investigate the individuals behind the scheme to prevent further fraud.
