Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have apprehended 10 suspects believed to be the masterminds behind a spate of break-ins reported in Nairobi and its surrounding areas.
The 10 men aged between 36 and 50 are suspected to have been directly involved in the planning and execution of break-in incidents where assorted hardware goods, steel products, lubricants and motor vehicle spare parts have been reported stolen.
The suspects were identified as Paul Njoroge Muthoni, Job Onsomu Onkundi, Erick Irungu Karanja, Daniel Opiyo Oketch, James Maina Githua, Joseph Maina Wambugu, Patrick Karani, Peter Karangi, Peter Karanja Kanyoro, and Mathew Riunge Karinge.
The arrests were made during a joint operation led by detectives from the DCI’s Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) Nairobi area and DCI Kasarani. The suspects were located and captured in their hideouts across Nairobi and nearby areas.
Following a brief interrogation, the suspects led the detectives to Faith Estate, Riverside Court in Juja, Murera, where 463 cartons of lubricants previously stolen from go down at Thika Industrial Park were recovered.
Additionally, during the operation, detectives recovered and detained four motor vehicles connected to the go-down break ins.
The DCI revealed that the gang is also linked to several high-profile break-ins.
In April 2024, the group allegedly broke into two go-downs at Syzo International premises in Mwiki, making away with hardware items and laptops.
In another incident on July 26, 2024, the gang reportedly scaled the walls of Patnet Steelmakers in Kamulu, subdued security guards, and killed a night shift worker before stealing tonnes of nails and barbed wires.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations reiterates its resolve to remain proactive and professional in investigating crimes, protecting life and property, apprehending offenders and supporting their prosecution,” DCI said.
