The Kenya Railways Corporation (KRC) has issued a strong warning to the public over a growing number of fraudulent websites and social media pages posing as official booking platforms for Madaraka Express (SGR) tickets.
In a statement shared on its official X (formerly Twitter) account, KRC cautioned Kenyans against using any third-party websites or contacts when purchasing train tickets, emphasizing that scammers are taking advantage of unsuspecting passengers eager to book the popular Nairobi-Mombasa route.
“Whenever you want to speak to us, please reach us through our official contacts,” the corporation stated, adding that any other number, page, or link claiming to sell tickets on its behalf is a scam.
According to Kenya Railways, these fake platforms typically list phone numbers and encourage direct contact, after which victims are asked to send money for “bookings.” The scammers then disappear without issuing valid tickets, leaving travelers stranded.
To safeguard passengers, the corporation reiterated that SGR tickets are only available through three verified channels:
- The official online portal – metickets.krc.co.ke
- The USSD code *639#
- Physical ticket counters at any Madaraka Express Passenger Service station
KRC also urged Kenyans to verify all contact information through its official website and verified social media pages, noting that offers of discounted or last-minute tickets are clear indicators of fraud.
The corporation assured passengers that it is actively monitoring and reporting fraudulent accounts to relevant authorities. It encouraged anyone who suspects a scam to report immediately via official communication lines.
As online fraud continues to rise, Kenya Railways’ reminder serves as a timely caution to all travelers to remain vigilant and only engage with verified, secure platforms for their travel needs.
