NAIROBI, Kenya- A breakthrough by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has brought relief to traders in Kajiado, Kiambu and Nairobi counties after detectives dismantled a violent robbery syndicate linked to a recent wave of attacks on wines and spirits outlets.
For weeks, traders in these regions lived in fear as an armed gang struck liquor shops with impunity — smashing into premises, stealing cash and stock, and in some instances leaving a trail of violence and destruction.
What initially appeared to be isolated incidents soon revealed a chilling pattern of coordinated surveillance, targeted attacks and an organised network for disposing of stolen goods.
Strategic, Intelligence‑Led Operation Nets Key Suspects
In an intelligence‑led operation, detectives tracked down and arrested key suspects believed to be the masterminds and facilitators behind the syndicate.
According to police, Peter Muhia Njenga, alleged to be the chief coordinator, was arrested in Nakuru County after weeks of forensic tracking and surveillance.
Investigators described this as a critical breakthrough in unmasking the structure of the criminal enterprise.
Two of his suspected accomplices were also apprehended:
- John Mugo Nderito, believed to have been the receiver and distributor of stolen alcoholic consignments, was arrested in Ruiru; and
- Elisha Njeri Katito, alleged to own and use vehicles for surveillance, getaway missions and transporting stolen goods, was arrested in Juja.
Detectives say these arrests effectively dismantled the logistical backbone of the operation, disrupting the syndicate’s ability to carry out further attacks.
DCI Dismantles Ruthless Robbery Syndicate Terrorizing Traders Across Kajiado, Kiambu and NairobiA wave of relief is sweeping across Kajiado County, Kiambu County and Nairobi following the decisive arrest of key suspects linked to a string of robbery with violence and murder
Recovery of Stolen Goods and Strengthening the Case
Following the arrests, victims of the robberies from areas such as Ongata Rongai and Karen visited Kikuyu Police Station to identify recovered property.
Seized items include assorted alcoholic products bearing unique trader identification marks, helping link the stolen goods back to the incidents.
Forensic experts from the DCI’s Photographic Imaging and Acoustics Unit are analysing CCTV footage from affected outlets.
The visual and acoustic evidence is expected to corroborate witness statements and strengthen the prosecution’s case against the suspects.
The suspects are currently in custody as processing and arraignment procedures are finalised.
Police stations dealing with related cases have been instructed to support ongoing investigations, ensuring no victim is left unheard and no lead is overlooked.
