Police in Siaya county are investigating a new scheme that was used by some alleged conmen from the county to allegedly steal from unsuspecting people.

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This follows claims that the gang used the name of area county commissioner Michael Ole Tialal to extract money from six unsuspecting businessmen.

Confirming the same, Tialal said that the conmen used an OCS and Chamber of Commerce Chairperson Roseline Omuga to get the contact of the businessmen.

He added that one of the conmen, while pretending to be him (Tialal), directed Ms Omuga to prepare a sitting with the businessmen, which would be attended by a top state official.

He allegedly claimed that Interior Principal Secretary Karanja Kibicho would attend, allegedly to issue the businessmen with firearms for their protection.

"Somebody called the OCS pretending he was me and told him the PS will be here today to talk to business persons in this county. He asked OCS to talk to chamber of commerce to do mobilisation before he later called the six to send him money," the police boss told the Standard.

The conmen are said to have then contacted the businessmen, to sent them Sh18,700 which they said was to be used for the registration on the issuance of the arms.

Another businessman was called on the night of the purported meeting and directed to send Sh40,000 for basic needs of the PS and his (the businessman) registration.

Mr Tialal is now calling upon Kenyans to be extra vigilant, adding that the said OCS will also be investigated over the same.

"We appeal to anyone not to give money easily before verifying with contacts. I am not sure if these criminals are within," added Mr Tialal

A group of businessmen are currently helping detectives with investigations in a bid to nab the suspects.