The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched investigations into a land ownership dispute in Ruai, Nairobi.

In a statement on Monday, May 4, the agency confirmed that the matter was first reported by the complainant, who raised concerns after construction activities began on land she claims to own.

“The complainant, Catherine Wanderi, initially reported the matter at DCI Ruai on April 24, 2026, stating that an unidentified individual had commenced construction on her parcel of land,” the statement read.

According to DCI, detectives later visited the location and advised the complainant on the next steps required to support her claim, including recording a formal statement and submitting documents. 

However, the agency claimed that the process was not completed at that time.

“Detectives visited the scene on April 28, 2026, and advised the complainant to record a formal statement and present supporting documentation. She presented herself at the station however she left without completing the process at that time,” the statement added.

With matter gaining public attention after a video went viral online, the individual linked to the construction was identified and summoned by detectives. 

The DCI said he recorded a statement and presented documents to support his ownership claim.

“He presented documentation, including a lease certificate, and indicated that he purchased the property in 2017 through a formal transaction facilitated by Embakasi Ranching Company. He has since been directed to halt all construction activities pending the conclusion of investigations,” the statement noted.

According to the agency, the complainant has since returned to the station and complied with the earlier request to formally record her statement and submit supporting documents related to the land.

“The complainant has also today, May 4, 2026, presented herself at DCI Ruai and recorded her statement, alongside submitting supporting documents, including a share certificate from Embakasi Ranching Company,” the statement added.

As such, the DCI has now opened a formal inquiry file to determine the rightful owner of the disputed land and ensure a fair process for both parties involved.

“An inquiry file has been opened to establish the rightful ownership of the piece of land, and investigations are ongoing, with both parties assured of a fair, impartial, and thorough investigation,” the statement concluded.

DCI has urged members of the public to allow the investigation to proceed without interference and to avoid drawing conclusions based on unverified information shared online.