Motorists across Kenya are facing increased scrutiny as the Insurance Regulatory Authority (IRA) launches a fresh crackdown on fake motor insurance certificates in collaboration with the Insurance Fraud Investigation Unit (IFIU).
The nationwide enforcement campaign aims to eliminate fraudulent insurance covers from Kenyan roads and protect motorists from financial losses that arise when invalid policies fail to provide compensation after accidents.
According to the regulator, the operation combines enforcement activities with public awareness initiatives targeting motorists, public transport operators, SACCOs, and traffic police officers.
Authorities Target Fraudulent Insurance Networks
In a statement issued on Wednesday, June 17, 2026, the IRA warned that fake insurance certificates continue to pose a major threat to road users and the insurance industry.
The regulator noted that many motorists unknowingly purchase counterfeit insurance documents from fraudsters masquerading as licensed agents. In most cases, victims only discover the fraud when they attempt to file claims after accidents.
“Fake motor insurance certificates put everyone at risk,” the authority stated, emphasizing the need for motorists to verify the authenticity of their insurance policies.
The enforcement drive is expected to help identify illegal operators and reduce the circulation of counterfeit insurance documents.
Initial Operations Focus on Eastern Kenya
The first phase of the exercise was conducted in Machakos, Kitui, and Garissa counties, where officials engaged drivers, vehicle owners, and transport operators on the importance of obtaining insurance cover from authorized providers.
During the operation, officers also educated motorists on how to distinguish genuine insurance policies from fraudulent ones.
The regulator indicated that similar exercises will be rolled out in other parts of the country as efforts to combat insurance fraud intensify.
Fake Covers Expose Motorists to Major Risks
The IRA warned that motorists using fake insurance certificates face serious legal and financial consequences.
In the event of a road accident, vehicle owners holding fraudulent policies may be forced to personally cover compensation costs, vehicle repairs, medical expenses, and other liabilities because the fake insurers cannot honor claims.
The authority added that valid motor insurance remains a legal requirement for all vehicles operating on Kenyan roads and plays a critical role in protecting both motorists and third parties.
Previous Operations Uncovered Multiple Cases
The latest campaign follows a series of successful anti-fraud operations conducted in recent years.
In June 2025, a joint operation in Central Kenya uncovered 27 cases involving fake insurance documents, leading to the arrest and prosecution of several suspects.
Another enforcement exercise carried out in the Coast region in December 2025 revealed 17 additional cases of fraudulent motor insurance, with several individuals subsequently arraigned in court.
As the crackdown continues, the IRA has urged motorists to verify the authenticity of their insurance certificates before making payments.
How Motorists Can Verify Insurance Policies
To avoid falling victim to fraudsters, the authority is encouraging vehicle owners to confirm the validity of their insurance policies through the *352# verification platform.
Motorists have also been advised to purchase insurance only from licensed insurers, authorized agents, and registered brokers.
The regulator says increased vigilance among motorists will play a key role in reducing insurance fraud and ensuring that all road users remain adequately protected in the event of accidents.
