Notorious Gold Scam Suspect Tim Orao Shikalo Charged Over Sh38 Million Fraud
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Nairobi, Kenya – June 17, 2025
A key suspect in a notorious international gold scam, Tim Orao Shikalo, alias Vincent Olowa Wanton, has been formally charged at the Milimani Law Courts in connection with a Sh38 million fraud targeting a foreign investor.
Shikalo appeared before Magistrate Benmark Ekhubi and denied all charges brought against him. The court was informed that the offenses took place between February 1 and August 2, 2024, within Nairobi County.
According to the prosecution, Shikalo allegedly conspired with others not before the court to defraud Asianic Limited of USD 265,200 (approximately KSh 38 million) by falsely claiming he could facilitate the sale of 580 kilograms of gold. He also faced a second charge of obtaining money by false pretenses, contrary to Kenyan law.
Investigators revealed that the syndicate had presented forged documents, offered false guarantees, and provided assurances of legal backing to make the deal appear legitimate. However, forensic analysis confirmed that the “gold” was nothing more than a mixture of copper, zinc, and tin—with no trace of any precious metal.
“The deception was elaborate and calculated,” stated the lead investigating officer. “This was a highly orchestrated operation designed to target foreign investors using fake contracts and counterfeit gold.”
Shikalo’s arrest is the latest breakthrough in an ongoing investigation into a sprawling network of fraudsters involved in fake gold dealings. He remains in police custody pending further processing.
This development follows the earlier arrest of Steve Okoth Odek, alias David Beth, who was apprehended on December 7, 2024. He was charged shortly thereafter for his alleged role in the same scheme, marking the start of a broader crackdown on the syndicate.
Authorities have confirmed that investigations are still ongoing. At least two more suspects believed to be part of the same criminal ring are under active surveillance. Detectives suspect that this group is behind a string of fraudulent gold transactions that have caused significant financial losses to international clients.
The case has drawn public attention and raised concerns over the growing threat of fake gold scams in Kenya’s capital, with law enforcement agencies vowing to dismantle the entire network.
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