By Andrew Kariuki
Detectives in Meru have arrested a 47 year old ex-convict suspected of leading a violent robbery network that has been terrorising several areas in Igembe.
The suspect, Jason Kobia Mucoka, was apprehended during a joint security operation involving officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the Kenya Police Service (KPS) and the Administration Police Service (APS).
According to investigators, Mucoka is believed to be linked to a series of violent robberies reported in Mutuati, Laare, Maua and surrounding parts of the wider Igembe region.
Police said the suspect had recently been released from prison after serving 15 years for the murder of his brother.
Authorities allege that shortly after his release, Mucoka armed himself with an illegal firearm, recruited members of a criminal gang and began issuing threats to residents in the Kabachi area, warning that he would shoot anyone who attempted to confront him.
Acting on intelligence, the multi agency team conducted an operation that led to his arrest.
During interrogation, detectives said the suspect led them to a hidden firearm cache located in a nearby miraa plantation close to his residence.
Officers recovered a Pachet submachine gun loaded with six rounds of 9mm ammunition, which investigators believe may have been used in criminal activities within the region.
The firearm and ammunition have since been secured as exhibits and will be forwarded to the National Police Forensic Laboratory for ballistic examination.
Police said the analysis will help determine whether the weapon was used in previous crimes.
Mucoka remains in police custody and is expected to be arraigned in court on charges including robbery with violence, illegal possession of a firearm and threats to kill.
Investigations are ongoing as detectives work to establish the origin of the weapon, trace the supply of the ammunition and identify accomplices believed to be involved in the criminal network.
Authorities say some suspects linked to the gang are already in custody while others are still being pursued.
Police say the operation forms part of broader efforts to dismantle criminal groups operating in the region.
