Government Warns of Scammers Targeting Kenyans Stranded in Lebanon Amid Ongoing Conflict

 In a hurry? Here’s a quick summary…

• Scammers are targeting Kenyans stranded in Lebanon, charging for fake evacuation services as conflict with Israel intensifies.

• The government urges Kenyans to register for free evacuation by the October 12 deadline and avoid paying for assistance.

The government has raised concerns over scammers preying on Kenyans stranded in war-torn Lebanon. 

As conflict between Lebanon and Israel intensifies, these fraudsters are exploiting vulnerable individuals by offering fake evacuation services for a fee.

The State Department for Diaspora Affairs has warned that scammers, using specific phone numbers, are charging Kenyans for false rescue promises. 

The government emphasized that official evacuation services are free of charge and urged citizens not to pay for any assistance. 

“We urge all Kenyans currently in Lebanon to be cautious and avoid paying any fees for evacuation,” the ministry stated.

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Additionally, the ministry provided emergency contact information for Kenyans to report suspicious activities or seek help, directing them to reach out to the Kenyan Embassy in Kuwait or email consular@diaspora.go.ke.

The situation in Lebanon has worsened with Israeli airstrikes causing widespread destruction, particularly near Beirut's international airport and Hezbollah strongholds. 

Thursday’s bombing targeted key Hezbollah figures, as reported by the media. As violence escalates, the Kenyan government has set an October 12 deadline for Kenyans in Lebanon to register for evacuation.

The ministry has expressed concern about the low number of registrations, stressing that citizens must act quickly to secure a place in government-led rescue efforts, which are fully funded by the state. 

Many Kenyans, particularly domestic workers, face difficulties leaving due to employers withholding their passports, further complicating their evacuation.

Social media has highlighted the dire situation, with distressing images showing the devastation. 

One video features a Kenyan woman, Brenda Muthoni, trapped under rubble and pleading for help, reflecting the desperation of Kenyans caught in the ongoing conflict.

There are approximately 26,599 Kenyans in Lebanon, primarily working in domestic and hospitality sectors. 

Many traveled through an agreement with the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry, but the outbreak of violence has left them reliant on government efforts for evacuation. 

The ministry emphasized that registering for evacuation online is now crucial, urging citizens to use the provided emergency numbers: +96590906719, +96171175006, or +254114757002.