26yr Old University Dropout Arrested For Hacking Betting Firm, Stealing $88,000 In Sophisticated Cyber Heist

By Our Reporter

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kenya has arrested 26-year-old Seth Mwabe for allegedly masterminding a sophisticated cyber fraud scheme that siphoned over $88,000 from a local betting company.

According to authorities, Mwabe, a self-proclaimed cybersecurity engineer and university dropout, exploited his perceived expertise to gain access to the firm’s systems under the pretense of providing cybersecurity services. Investigators describe the operation as meticulously planned and highly sophisticated.

A search of Mwabe’s residence revealed a safe, a money-counting machine, and a fully equipped computer lab, which authorities believe were instrumental in executing the illegal operation.

Despite leaving university in his second year, Mwabe claims to have been practicing cybersecurity since 2017. His skills came to public attention in 2019 when he won a cybersecurity challenge organised by a major local bank, a feat that authorities now view as a precursor to his alleged criminal exploits.

Mwabe remains in police custody as the DCI continues investigations, working to recover the stolen funds and dismantle any networks linked to the fraud.

The case has raised concerns over cybersecurity vulnerabilities in Kenya’s burgeoning digital economy, with officials urging companies to strengthen their online security measures.