Scam in KenyaOn the street
Children used as a distraction in Kenya
How it works
Older children may try to distract visitors or get very close. This can create an opportunity for theft. A friendly greeting alone does not show that a child is involved in a scam.
Warning signs
- Repeated attempts to distract you.
- Children moving close to your pockets or bag.
How to avoid it
- Keep your bag closed and in front of you.
- Maintain space during an unwanted approach.
- Keep walking if you feel distracted or crowded.
If it happens to you
Check your belongings once you are somewhere safe. Report any theft.
- Move to a safe, staffed place. Do not chase thieves or confront anyone with a weapon.
- Freeze missing cards and contact your card issuer about any unauthorised payments.
- Lock a stolen phone remotely if possible. Ask your mobile provider to block the SIM.
- Save receipts, messages, booking details and transaction records. Write down what happened while you remember it.
- Report theft, robbery or threats to police. Ask for a report or reference number.
- Contact your insurer. If your passport is missing, contact your embassy or consulate.
What travellers report
Posts about this scam on other sites, summarised in our words. Open one to read the original.
Questions
What is the children used as a distraction scam in Kenya?
Older children may try to distract visitors or get very close. This can create an opportunity for theft. A friendly greeting alone does not show that a child is involved in a scam.
How can I spot it early?
Repeated attempts to distract you. Children moving close to your pockets or bag.
How do I avoid children used as a distraction in Kenya?
Keep your bag closed and in front of you. Maintain space during an unwanted approach. Keep walking if you feel distracted or crowded.
What should I do if it happens to me?
Check your belongings once you are somewhere safe. Report any theft.
Where in Kenya does this happen?
Nairobi. It has been reported in Nairobi.
How common is this scam in Kenya?
Occasional. Tourist overcharging, pushy touts and theft are recurring risks in Kenya. Pickpocketing is especially common in Nairobi and around Kisumu's Kibuye Market, while transport fares, souvenir prices and basic services can cost visitors much more than locals pay. Robbery is a more serious risk, especially after dark.
Are there similar scams in Kenya?
Yes: lamu touts charging inflated service prices, coordinated street cons, opportunistic begging.
Who can I report it to?
Police: report theft, robbery, threats or fraud at a police station. Ask for a written report or reference number. Mombasa Central police station: visit Makadara Road or call +254 41 225501. Police on Mama Ngina Drive are also listed at +254 41 225501 and +254 41 222121. Kisumu police: call the provincial headquarters on +254 20 465767 or Kisumu division on +254 20 333151. The headquarters are on Nairobi Road near the long-distance bus terminal. Card issuer or bank: use the official app or published contact number to freeze cards and report unauthorised transactions. Transport company or airline: report fare disputes through the operator's official support channel. Report missing checked-bag contents to the airline promptly and keep your baggage tag. Embassy or consulate: use its official contact details for help with a stolen passport or a serious incident. Travel insurer: contact the claims or assistance service. Keep police reports, receipts and evidence of the loss.
What number do I call in an emergency in Kenya?
Emergency assistance; listed for Mombasa: 112, Police and fire emergency assistance; listed for Mombasa: 999.
Reviewed by @snuck