Kenyan Student in Russia Alleges Sh100,000 Crypto Scam by Fellow Citizen
A Kenyan student in Russia has accused a fellow countryman of defrauding him of 780 USDT (around KSh 100,000) through a failed cryptocurrency exchange, leaving him unable to pay his university fees.
Hassan Mohamed Hassan, who is studying in Russia, says the transaction, which was intended to convert the stablecoin into Russian rubles for his tuition, took place on 31 December 2025. However, after transferring the funds to a man named Steve Kemboi, Hassan claims he was unable to reach him again.
Hassan explained that due to Western sanctions, foreign students in Russia face difficulties accessing traditional banking services, prompting many to turn to alternative financial channels like cryptocurrency. He was introduced to Kemboi through a WhatsApp group for Kenyan students in Russia, and the two agreed on an exchange rate. After sending the cryptocurrency, however, Kemboi became unreachable, and efforts to trace him through other students were unsuccessful.
“The money was meant for university fees,” Hassan said, adding that he later discovered Kemboi was in Kenya. Hassan has reported the matter to Kenyan authorities, including lodging a complaint with the Nairobi Central Police Station and notifying the Kenyan Embassy in Moscow, but has yet to receive any assistance.
The case highlights the growing reliance on cryptocurrency among Kenyans living abroad, particularly in regions where conventional banking services are limited or difficult to access. USDT (Tether), a dollar-pegged stablecoin, is often favoured for its stability and ease of cross-border transfers.
However, experts warn that informal exchanges conducted through social media or messaging apps carry significant risks. Without the protections provided by regulated financial institutions, such transactions can result in substantial financial losses, with little recourse for those affected.
Kenyan authorities have previously issued warnings about online fraud involving digital currencies, noting that cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible once completed. Hassan’s situation underscores the vulnerabilities faced by diaspora communities who rely on informal financial networks to meet their needs.
As of publication, Steve Kemboi has not responded to the allegations. Hassan continues to seek assistance from both Kenyan authorities and members of the diaspora in recovering the lost funds.
