Written by Lisa Murimi
Police in Kilifi County have arrested two managers of scrap metal yards suspected of buying stolen motorcycles, following a targeted operation by Mtwapa Police officers on Monday.
The operation, carried out on June 2 in the Majengo area, was prompted by persistent public complaints linking rogue scrap dealers to rising cases of motorcycle theft in the region.
According to a report from the National Police Service (NPS), the officers acted on a tipoff from residents.
A thorough search of two scrap yards led to the recovery of one complete motorcycle and several dismantled parts concealed in plastic sacks.
The two managers were arrested on the spot and remain in custody pending processing and arraignment.
”A thorough search led to the recovery of one motorcycle and several motorcycle parts, which had been concealed in plastic sacks. Two managers of the respective yards were arrested and remain in police custody pending processing and court arraignment,” read part of the NPS statement.
Police say the arrests may be the first step in exposing a broader syndicate behind the rampant theft and illegal resale of motorcycles in Kilifi and surrounding areas.
The incident underscores ongoing concerns about the scrap metal industry, which authorities say has often served as a conduit for stolen goods.
The Scrap Metal Council, despite being under threat of a merger, has been credited with leading successful crackdowns on illegal trade.
The NPS has called on the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities to help curb criminal networks in their communities.
