NAIROBI, Kenya- The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has warned drivers transporting newly imported transit vehicles to remain on high alert following rising cases of violent highway robberies targeting motorists along key transport corridors.
The warning follows a dramatic robbery attempt on Tuesday, May 6, near the Mutomo area in Mtito Andei involving a driver transporting a Subaru Impreza from Mombasa to Kampala.
According to detectives, the driver was ambushed after a motorcycle carrying two men and another passenger posing as a disabled person emerged from a nearby thicket and blocked the highway.
The suspects reportedly pleaded for help, claiming they were assisting the “disabled” passenger who was using crutches.
Moved by sympathy, the driver stopped to assist, only for the situation to quickly turn violent.
Police said one of the attackers suddenly drew a firearm and threatened the driver in an apparent attempt to hijack the vehicle.
A struggle broke out inside the car as the gang attempted to overpower the motorist and take control of the vehicle.
In a shocking twist, the firearm accidentally discharged during the scuffle, fatally injuring the suspect who had been pretending to be disabled.
The remaining attackers fled the scene aboard the motorcycle, abandoning both their accomplice and the injured driver.
Police officers responded swiftly, rushing the injured driver to Kambu Hospital for treatment before he was discharged.
The body of the deceased suspect was moved to Kambu Hospital Mortuary as detectives launched investigations to track down the two fugitives.
The DCI said the incident exposes a growing tactic used by organised criminal gangs who disguise themselves as stranded or vulnerable road users to exploit the goodwill of unsuspecting drivers before launching armed attacks.
Authorities have now advised drivers transporting transit vehicles not to stop for strangers along highways and instead report emergencies directly to police stations or security agencies.
The agency reiterated its commitment to enhancing security along major highways and urged motorists to remain vigilant against staged distress situations that could end in violent robberies.
