Lands ministry: Stolen security papers not title deeds

Lands Cabinet Secretary Alice Wahome. [Standard, File]

The Ministry of Lands has confirmed theft of 367 security papers reported by the Government Printer on Friday, September 26.

In a statement on Sunday, September 29, the ministry explained that the papers are components in the titling process, not title deeds.

"The papers can only become title deeds after they are handed over to the Ministry of Lands, filled with ownership details and sealed with the stamp and signature of the Registrar after all due processes are followed," said the ministry.

The ministry added that the theft aimed to assist corruption cartels in producing fake titles.

In response, the government has strengthened anti-fraud measures and is working with security agencies to combat these activities.

One officer at the Government Printer has been arrested in connection with the theft, according to the Government Printer.

The ministry assured the public that the integrity of the titling process remains secure.

On Friday, the Government Printer Abdi Hassan Ali issued a Gazette notice indicating that title deeds bearing serial numbers 5253001-5253367 had been lost.

The notice was made through the Executive Office of the President's Chief of Staff and Head of Public Service.

"The Government will not take any liability arising from any unauthorized transactions on the said title deeds and that by dint of this notice they are deemed cancelled and of no effect," the notice said.