By Andrew Kariuki
Five suspects have been arrested following a police operation targeting an alleged criminal network linked to motor vehicle theft and livestock-related crimes across Nyeri, Kirinyaga and Murang’a counties.
According to investigators, the arrests followed the reported theft of a Toyota Sienta, registration number KCY 467A, which had disappeared under unclear circumstances in a case reported at Kiaruhiu Police Station.
Detectives say intelligence gathered during investigations led them to a man believed to be the suspected ringleader of the group, identified as Martin Ndegwa Kinyua, who was reportedly arrested in the Kagicha area while allegedly planning to meet associates to dispose of the stolen vehicle.
Police indicated that after his arrest, the suspect directed officers to Skuta area in Nyeri where the missing vehicle was allegedly recovered. Authorities further claimed the car had been concealed and fitted with different registration plates, KDJ 765J, in what investigators suspect was an attempt to disguise its identity.
As investigations intensified, detectives reportedly mounted a follow-up operation targeting additional suspects believed to be linked to the alleged syndicate.
During the operation, officers intercepted a Toyota Succeed registration number KCS 523H, which police say was carrying four individuals suspected to be associates of the first suspect.
The four were identified by police as Bernard Njeru Kimathi, Edwin Muchira Mwinga, Tobias Macharia Mwangi and James Muthama Muriuki.
A search conducted on the vehicle reportedly led to the recovery of several items including ten sisal ropes, a panga, two knives, a rungu and a master key, materials investigators say may assist ongoing inquiries into the gang’s alleged activities.
Police further alleged that preliminary investigations revealed the suspects may have been involved in livestock theft on the same night the motor vehicle was stolen.
Investigators claim stolen livestock was slaughtered and the meat sold through informal channels to butchers, deepening concerns over a growing black market linked to stock theft in the region.
Authorities also stated that the suspects are being investigated over possible links to a separate livestock theft matter currently before the Kerugoya Law Courts.
The five suspects remain in police custody pending processing and arraignment, while detectives continue investigations and pursue additional individuals believed to be connected to the alleged network.
Law enforcement agencies say the operation forms part of wider intelligence-led efforts to disrupt organised criminal groups involved in motor vehicle theft, livestock theft and related offences across Central Kenya.
