Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested five suspects believed to be part of a coordinated criminal network linked to motor vehicle and livestock theft across Kirinyaga, Nyeri, and Murang’a counties.
The arrests follow an intelligence-led operation triggered by the disappearance of a Toyota Sienta, registration number KCY 467A, which was reported at Kiaruhiu Police Station. The case immediately prompted investigators to launch coordinated tracking efforts aimed at recovering the vehicle and identifying those behind the theft.
According to the DCI, officers acting on actionable intelligence managed to trace the movement of the stolen vehicle, which eventually led them to the suspected ringleader of the group. He was intercepted in Kagicha area while allegedly preparing to meet accomplices in a bid to dispose of the stolen motor vehicle.
Upon interrogation, the suspect is said to have led detectives to Skuta area in Nyeri County, where the stolen vehicle had been concealed. Investigators found the vehicle fitted with fake registration plates, KCJ 765J, in what authorities believe was an attempt to disguise its identity and evade detection.
The operation further intensified as detectives tracked a getaway vehicle believed to be linked to the gang. Officers intercepted a Toyota Succeed, registration number KCS 523H, which was carrying four additional suspects alleged to be part of the same criminal network.
The suspects have been identified as Bernard Njeru Kimathi, Edwin Muchira Mwinga, Tobias Macharia Mwangi, and James Muthama Muriuki.
A search conducted on the intercepted vehicle uncovered items suspected to have been used in criminal activities, including ten sisal ropes, a panga, two knives, a rungu, and a master key. Investigators say the recovered items point to a well-organised operation with intentions extending beyond vehicle theft.
Further investigations revealed that on the same night the vehicle was stolen, the suspects are also believed to have targeted livestock. Authorities allege that the animals were slaughtered and the meat sold through illegal channels, raising concerns over a wider black-market network operating in the region.
The gang has also been linked to an ongoing stock theft case before the Kerugoya Law Courts, suggesting possible involvement in multiple related offences.
All five suspects remain in custody as they undergo processing pending arraignment. Meanwhile, detectives have intensified efforts to trace additional accomplices believed to be part of the wider network.
The DCI has reiterated its commitment to dismantling organised criminal groups involved in motor vehicle and livestock theft, noting that such crimes have continued to cause significant losses and insecurity among residents in Central Kenya.
 have arrested five suspects believed to be part of a coordinated criminal network linked to motor vehicle and livestock theft across Kirinyaga, Nyeri, and Murang’a counties.){kind=link}