The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Athi River, Machakos County, is investigating a robbery incident where two passengers, a man and a woman, were robbed over KSh409,000 and other valuables.

Reports indicate that the two were robbed by a dagger-wielding gang that purported to offer them a lift to Mombasa.

The two, the investigative agency says, were waiting for a Mombasa-bound bus at Mlolongo on Saturday, December 21, when the driver of a private vehicle with seemingly three other passengers pulled over, offering to help given the transport challenges being experienced across the country during this Christmas eve.

But after boarding, the vehicle occupants reportedly turned to be robbers, who upon reaching Simba Cement area in Athi River brandished daggers and held them hostage.

“The victims were blindfolded and restrained using ropes, before they were frisked for valuables. From the male victim who hails from Kiambu town, a total of KSh340,000 was withdrawn from his bank accounts using the M-banking apps, and another KSh20,000 from his Mpesa. His Samsung Galaxy phone and powerbank valued at KSh75,000 were also stolen,” the DCI says.

The agency adds: “The female victim who resides in Mombasa was also robbed a number of valuables and KSh49,000 from her Mpesa account. After the robbery, the two were dumped at Ngarariga area of Limuru, where members of the public assisted them to Ngarariga Police Station where the incident was reported.”

Fortunately, the robbers did not inflict any injuries on their victims.

“As police heighten patrols and crackdowns on such criminal elements who are taking advantage of the season to reign terror on Kenyan citizens, we call upon members of the public to be security cautious and to report any suspicious persons or activities around their neighbourhoods, so that we can all enjoy the true meaning of a happy festivity,” the DCI urges.