The Ministry of Lands, Public Works, Housing, and Urban Development has confirmed that 367 security papers used for printing title deeds were stolen from the Government Printer. The theft was disclosed through a gazette notice issued on September 26, 2024.
In an official statement, the Ministry clarified that the stolen documents were not actual title deeds but blank security papers used in their production.
Title deeds are only official once the Ministry of Lands fills in ownership details and the Registrar signs and stamps them, following all legal procedures.
The Ministry suspects that corruption cartels were behind the theft, with the intent to produce fake title deeds. However, it reassured the public that stringent measures are in place to prevent any fraudulent use of the stolen papers.
"We have enhanced our mechanisms to fight land fraud and are working closely with security agencies to counteract the corrupt practices traditionally employed by land fraud cartels," the statement read.It was also confirmed that one Government Printer employee has already been arrested in connection with the theft, and investigations are ongoing.
The Ministry reiterated that the integrity of the land titling process remains secure, and urged Kenyans to remain confident in the system.
