What began as a touching tale of domestic violence and a mother’s struggle for her children’s health has turned into a shocking scam that left Kenyans both stunned and furious.
Earlier this week, a video of a woman identified as Joyce Nyabuti being allegedly chased out of her home by her husband went viral. In the clip, Joyce claimed that her marriage had crumbled after disputes with her husband over the mental health challenges facing their children. With nowhere to go, she said, a friend had offered her temporary accommodation while she figured out her next steps.
The emotional story quickly gained traction online and Kenyans turned to one man they believed could intervene , comedian-turned-philanthropist Eric Omondi.
Through his initiative, Sisi Kwa Sisi, Eric launched a public appeal to support Joyce and her children. In a matter of hours, well-meaning Kenyans sent in donations amounting to over KSh 1 million. Eric assured supporters that the money would help Joyce secure a safe home and establish a business to sustain her family.
But what appeared to be a rescue mission filled with hope soon unraveled into a tale of deception.
According to Eric, Joyce and another woman she introduced as her sister had hatched an elaborate plan to dupe Kenyans. They allegedly recruited a man , whom they barely knew to pose as her husband and act out the eviction scene captured on video.
To tug at the nation’s heartstrings further, they also used her friend’s son in the plot, banking on the boy’s presence to generate greater sympathy.
Eric, known for his relentless activism and philanthropic efforts, was not about to let such fraud slide. After his team’s due diligence exposed inconsistencies, he personally confronted Joyce. He then handed over the mobile phone used to collect donations to detectives at the Kitengela Police Station, ensuring the scam would be thoroughly investigated.
In a hard-hitting statement, Eric expressed deep disappointment:
“One of the principles of Sisi Kwa Sisi is that we do serious due diligence before, during, and after a case. These individuals tried to scam Kenyans, but God is greater. It is sad that they would exploit innocent children to deceive the public. They are now in police custody, and the phone with over KSh 1 million is with the authorities. We are seeking guidance from Team Sisi Kwa Sisi on the way forward.”
The revelation sparked outrage among Kenyans, many of whom had dug into their pockets in genuine solidarity.
Social media lit up with angry reactions, with users condemning the deceit while also praising Eric for exposing the scam before more damage was done.
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