DCI detectives have arrested a gang of six men who have allegedly been posing as matatu operators in Parklands, Nairobi, only to turn against passengers, rob them of their valuables, and kidnap others.
The six suspects who authorities believe have been operating while on board a matatu Reg. No. KAQ 654A were arrested — by detectives drawn from the Operations Support Unit (OSU) — following a tip off from a member of the public.
The informer is said to have witnessed the accident where another vehicle was hit and badly damaged by the said matatu along Kipande Road.
“Prior to the accident, the robbers had kidnapped and robbed a passenger only to be involved in an accident after which they fled the scene,” the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reports.
On the fateful day, the thugs who were posing as matatu operators heading to town are reported to have picked a passenger at Kempinski only for part of gang members to disembark from the matatu leaving the lady at the mercy of their fellow robbers.
“Upon starting their mission, the lady started screaming and calling for help causing the robbers to panic causing an accident that gave them up to a hawk eyed member of public who later confided in the DCI on what she had discovered on the fateful day,” the DCI adds.
Immediately after receiving the tip, the team of detectives were assembled and sent on a mission that led to the arrest of Boniface Wachira Mwangi, Jackson Kimani Thuo, Titus Mburu Njonjo, Dennis Omondi Otieno, George Vincent Otieno and John Waweru Njenga (A receiver who was found in possession of 5 mobile phones and one tablet).
The DCI adds: “As efforts to arrest a female gang member who is still at large gain momentum, we appeal to anyone who may have fallen victim to the activities of this gang to come forward and make a report at DCI Headquarters Operations Directorate for further action. Additionally, we encourage members of the public to continue sharing inteligence tips anonymously through #FichuaKwaDCI toll free number 0800 722 203.”
