A land dispute involving a prime three-hectare property in Diani, Kwale County, has taken a legal turn after a suspect was arrested and charged in connection with an alleged attempt to fraudulently deal with the property valued at about Sh45 million.
George Nyambati Mochache was arrested by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Land Fraud Investigations Unit following investigations into the ownership and alleged attempted sale of parts of the property.
The property was reportedly bought by the complainant in 1991 and had remained under their ownership. However, concerns emerged in April 2023 after the complainant was informed that a third party had entered the land and begun activities on the property.
According to the investigation, the individual allegedly placed beacons on the land as part of an apparent subdivision exercise. Clearing activities were also reportedly started on the property, raising concerns over attempts to take control of the land.
The situation became more serious after portions of the property were reportedly advertised for sale. The developments prompted the complainant to seek the intervention of the authorities, leading to investigations by the DCI’s Land Fraud Investigations Unit.
Detectives at the DCI headquarters conducted investigations into the circumstances surrounding the property and the alleged dealings involving the land. The investigations focused on how the property had allegedly been targeted and the people involved in the transactions.
After completing their investigations, detectives forwarded the case file to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for review and legal advice.
The ODPP reviewed the evidence presented by the investigators and directed that Mochache be charged with conspiracy to defraud.
Mochache was arrested at DCI headquarters on October 2, 2026, after responding to a court summons. He was subsequently processed by the detectives before being escorted to Kwale, where the case was to be handled.
On Monday, October 5, 2026, Mochache appeared before the Kwale Law Courts and was formally arraigned over the matter. He pleaded not guilty to the charge brought against him.
The court granted him a Sh10 million bond as he awaits the next stage of the case. The matter has been scheduled for mention on October 29, 2026.
The case has brought renewed attention to the challenges surrounding land ownership and property transactions, particularly where valuable parcels are involved. Land disputes can take different forms, including claims over ownership, subdivision, changes to property records and attempts to sell land without the authority of the rightful owner.
In this case, the DCI investigation followed concerns that a property purchased decades ago had become the subject of activities that the complainant had not authorised.
The Land Fraud Investigations Unit continues to investigate cases involving suspected fraudulent dealings in land and property. The unit also works with other government agencies, including the ODPP, in building cases before they are taken to court.
The court process will now determine the issues raised in the case, with Mochache remaining a suspect who has denied the charge against him. The October 29 mention will provide the next opportunity for the court to give further directions on the matter.
