Residents of Eldoret, the vibrant City of Champions, are reeling from a devastating wave of recruitment scams that have left families financially ruined and emotionally shattered.
Pro Line Travel Advisors Limited, a local firm, has been accused of defrauding dozens of jobseekers with promises of lucrative jobs abroad in countries like Canada and Sweden.
Instead, victims received fake visas, empty promises, and no path to justice. If you’re dreaming of working overseas, here’s how to protect yourself from recruitment scams in Eldoret.
The Heartbreaking Reality of Recruitment Scams
Eldoret, nestled near the iconic Moi University and bustling Moi Teaching and Referral Hospital, has long been a beacon of opportunity. However, recruitment scams are tarnishing its reputation. Victims like Cynthia Chemtai from Chereng’any sold their family’s only plot of land to raise funds for a promised Canadian visa. “I quit my job, sold our land, and believed I’d start a new life,” Chemtai shared. “Now, I’m jobless, and my family is devastated.”
Similarly, Ben Ruto from Chemroroch village sold an acre of land for Sh880,000, hoping to secure a job for his son. “I thought we’d escape poverty,” he said. “But the job never came, and the money is gone.” These stories echo across Eldoret, from Yamumbi estate to the areas near 64 Stadium, where families have lost their life savings to fraudulent schemes.
How Recruitment Scams Operate in Eldoret
Scammers like those at Pro Line Travel Advisors prey on hope. They promise high-paying jobs abroad, often demanding large upfront payments for visas, travel, or processing fees. Here’s how these scams typically unfold:
- False Promises: Victims are lured with guarantees of jobs in desirable countries like Canada or Sweden.
- Fake Documents: Scammers provide counterfeit visas or send photos of supposed documents via WhatsApp, as Jacqueline Chepkoech from Yamumbi estate experienced.
- No Accountability: After collecting payments, firms disappear or provide excuses, leaving victims with no recourse.
Julia Bushenei, who sold her only plot for Sh800,000, received a fake visa just before her son’s farewell party. “We celebrated, thinking he was leaving for Sweden,” she recalled. “It was all a lie.”
Why Justice Remains Elusive
Despite a 2022 court order directing the arrest of Pro Line’s director, Isaac Barmasai, no action has been taken. Victims allege that officers at Eldoret Central Police Station, just minutes from the bustling Uganda Road, are protecting Barmasai. “We filed complaints, but nothing happens,” said Ben Ruto. “It feels like the system is against us.”
The National Employment Authority has confirmed that Pro Line is no longer licensed, yet the firm continues to operate unchecked. This lack of accountability has left victims like Chemtai, who tearfully considered extreme measures to repay her family’s losses, feeling abandoned.
How to Protect Yourself from Recruitment Scams in Eldoret
Don’t let your dreams of working abroad lead to financial ruin. Follow these steps to stay safe:
- Verify the Agency: Check if the firm is registered with the National Employment Authority. Unlicensed agencies are a red flag.
- Avoid Upfront Payments: Legitimate agencies don’t demand large fees before securing a job or visa.
- Research Thoroughly: Speak to others who have used the agency and check reviews online.
- Consult Authorities: Visit Eldoret Central Police Station or contact the Ministry of Labour for guidance on legitimate recruiters.
- Trust Your Instincts: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is.
Taking Action and Seeking Justice
If you’ve fallen victim to a recruitment scam in Eldoret, don’t lose hope. File a formal complaint at Eldoret Central Police Station, and consider escalating the matter to the courts. Community groups near Pioneer Estate are also organizing to support victims and raise awareness. By sharing your story, you can help others avoid similar traps.
Moving Forward in Eldoret
The recruitment scams in Eldoret have left deep scars, but they don’t define our city. From the vibrant markets near West Indies to the serene paths around Huruma, Eldoret remains a place of resilience. By staying informed and cautious, we can protect our families and rebuild trust in our community.
Have you or someone you know been affected by a recruitment scam? Share your story in the comments below, and let’s work together to keep Eldoret safe from fraud.
