KWS Issues Alert Over Fake Recruitment Letters In Circulation: "Kaa Chonjo, Usidanganywe"

• The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) warned the public about fraudsters distributing fake calling letters
• KWS clarified that genuine recruitment letters have distinct security features, including a central KWS logo watermark and a unique serial number
• The service is working with authorities to crack down on the fraud and has provided a hotline for Kenyans seeking clarification
• In April, KWS conducted a transparent, nationwide recruitment drive for rangers and cadets in all 47 counties, issuing official calling letters to qualified candidates

Didacus Malowa, a journalist at TUKO.co.ke, brings over three years of experience covering politics and current affairs in Kenya.

Nairobi - The Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) has warned the public over fraudsters with fake calling letters.

In a press statement seen by TUKO.co.ke on Wednesday, May 22, the rangers stated that the letters are not certified copies.

The KWS explained that genuine recruitment letters have distinct security features, including a central KWS logo watermark and a unique serial number.

They observed that fake calling letters are riddled with grammatical errors, incorrect formatting, wrong reporting dates and signature.

KWS stated that they were working with the authorities to crack down on the vice and provide a hotline for Kenyans seeking clarification.

"The documents making rounds on social media platforms and purported to be issued by KWS are fraudulent and criminal. They are intended to mislead and besmirch the name of KWS. Our investigations department is working closely with other security agencies to establish the source of the fake calling letters and those behind them.

"KWS cautions members of the public to be wary of unscrupulous and criminal elements out to extort money from them by claiming to be in a position to offer them placement for the positions of cadets and rangers to train at LEA. All queries regarding admission to LEA should be channelled to our toll-free number, 0800 597 000, or customerservice@kws.go.ke," read the letter in part.

How did KWS conduct its recruitment?

The KWS stated that in April this year, they conducted a nationwide recruitment drive for rangers and cadets in all 47 counties.

They explained that the process was transparent and that all ethical standards and requirements were being observed.

"Advertisements to this effect were posted in local media and on our social media pages. The five-day exercise was undertaken in full view of the public, and high ethical standards were adhered to," continued the statement.

KWS revealed that qualified candidates had already been issued official calling letters containing the details of reporting dates and requirements at the Law Enforcement Academy (LEA) in Manyani.

Nairobi woman accuses pastor of conning her KSh 150k

Elsewhere, Pastor James Wanjohi, formerly of Jesus Culture Ministry, was accused of orchestrating a multi-million fraud through his recruitment company.

The founder of Worthstart Africa allegedly fleeced unsuspecting Kenyans over KSh 600 million with the promise of helping them secure employment abroad.

An elderly woman was one of the supposed victims, claiming that she took a KSh 150,000 loan to help her orphaned grandchild get a job in Canada via the agency.

Proofreading by Nyambura Guthua, journalist and copy editor at TUKO.co.ke