This archive report was first published on 18 July 2019.
According to media reports, hustlers are predominantly the victims of fraud, with many falling prey to fake power tokens, police extortion, and counterfeit products.
On July 18, 2019, XN Iraki wrote in The Standard that hustlers' trusting nature makes them easy targets for fraudsters. This is partly due to their upbringing, which emphasizes the importance of trusting those in authority.
Iraki shared a personal experience of being conned on Ronald Ngala Street in Nairobi by a woman who asked for bus fare, only to discover she was being scammed after another person asked for the same thing.
Another reason hustlers are vulnerable to fraud is their limited financial resources. With little money, they are often desperate for any opportunity that promises them more, making them susceptible to fake deals and scams.
Additionally, hustlers often lack access to information, which is crucial in avoiding fraud. Iraki noted that many hustlers may not have data bundles, making it difficult for them to verify the authenticity of emails or phone numbers.
Furthermore, hustlers often develop routines, which fraudsters capitalize on. Whether it's a religious conman, a witchdoctor, or a trader selling fake products, they seem to 'talk to you' and know about your family, dislikes, and so on.
Iraki emphasized that hustlers are rarely protected and are often left to fend for themselves. They walk at night, making them vulnerable to police extortion, and they can only call a relative in case of an emergency.
As a result, hustlers are victims of fraud not only economically but also socially, mentally, and politically. It's time for society to protect the weakest, not just the strongest.
