A notorious cross-border car theft dealer, who has long evaded law enforcement, was arrested after an officer from Loitoktok Police Station spotted him driving a stolen vehicle.
The vehicle, a white Toyota Dyna mini-truck (registration number KCG 508Q), was successfully recovered.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the officers, on a routine patrol, noticed the suspect behind the wheel.
Sensing the imminent danger of being caught, the suspect, identified as Muchiri, attempted to flee, abandoning the truck and running on foot. However, the officers pursued him, quickly closing in and making a swift arrest.
Following his apprehension, Muchiri was escorted to Loitoktok Police Station, where further investigations revealed his involvement in an organized car theft syndicate.
The syndicate has been targeting unsuspecting individuals, stealing vehicles, and smuggling them across the border to neighbouring countries, where they are sold at significantly reduced prices.
The investigation further uncovered that the stolen Toyota Dyna had been taken from a 32-year-old man, Evans Havi. Havi was found unconscious at Kalii’s guest house, and it is believed that Muchiri had assaulted him before making off with the truck.
Muchiri remains in police custody, where he is being processed ahead of his arraignment. Meanwhile, the stolen vehicle is being held as evidence.
The DCI has issued a warning to the public, urging vigilance as criminals continue to employ violent tactics, including the use of stupefying substances, to carry out their crimes. Law enforcement continues to call on the public to report any suspicious activities in their areas.