Eldoret Job Scam: Residents Lose Sh1.5 Billion in Fraudulent Canadian Employment Scheme

 In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• Over 300 Eldoret residents lost Sh1.5 billion in a fraudulent job scheme promising employment in Canada.

• The victims were asked to pay Sh300,000-350,000 each, only to be met with refusal letters and no refunds.

In a recent scandal in Eldoret, more than 300 residents have lost a staggering Sh1.5 billion after being duped into a fraudulent job scheme. 

The victims were lured by a company called Novice Global, led by Gilbert Songok, who allegedly promised to secure them job opportunities in Canada. 

Residents were asked to pay between Sh300,000 and Sh350,000 each, with the assurance that the amount would cover all expenses, including travel.

Eager to secure these jobs, residents raised the required funds by selling assets and borrowing from relatives. 

However, after making the payments, they were met with a long, anxious wait with no communication from the company. 

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Frustrated and concerned, many of them visited the company’s offices, only to receive vague responses and no clear answers about refunds or alternative opportunities.

One of the victims, Joshua Lagat, shared how they were led to believe that everything was in place once they paid the hefty amounts. 

Vivian Jerop, who paid Sh600,000 for her two siblings, lamented that despite reporting the matter to the police, no action had been taken. 

She also revealed that in early May, the company informed them that all applicants had received refusal letters and would not be traveling abroad as promised. 

The company then suggested they apply for jobs in Poland or Arabic countries instead.

Another victim, Simon Cheruiyot, shared how his family parted with Sh700,000, hoping to secure jobs for him and his brother. 

The scandal is the latest in a series of multi-billion shilling frauds in Eldoret, which is increasingly being viewed as a hub for such activities.