NAIROBI, Kenya – Detectives have arrested two men in connection with a Sh1 million gunpoint robbery in Nandi County, recovering mobile phones, SIM cards and other items during a follow-up search at one suspect’s home.
The suspects, identified as Charles Alure Kutai, 54, and Hillary Akurumana, 34, were arrested in Mudete, Sabatia Sub-County, Vihiga County, during a night operation led by detectives from Serem and Sabatia.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the arrests followed investigations into the robbery of a woman who had withdrawn Sh1 million from Co-operative Bank’s Mbale Branch on October 19, 2026.
The woman, who was travelling with a friend, had intended to use the money to purchase building materials.
After leaving the bank, the two boarded a matatu before alighting at Shamakhokho PSV stage, where they hired a motorcycle to continue their journey to Chemobo Village in Aldai Constituency.
Their journey was interrupted along a murram road near Erusui Girls Secondary School when a white Toyota Probox allegedly blocked their way.
Four men reportedly emerged from the vehicle, two of them armed with pistols, and confronted the victims before fleeing with the Sh1 million, which was packed in a shopping bag.
The attackers also took another bag containing the woman’s National Identity Card, Co-operative Bank ATM card and an Itel mobile phone before driving towards Serem Town.
Items recovered at suspect’s home
The DCI said a subsequent search at Kutai’s residence led to the recovery of several items suspected to be linked to criminal activities.
Among the items recovered were two pocket phones, 10 assorted mobile phones, a pair of handcuffs, several Safaricom and Airtel SIM cards, a penknife, a screwdriver and cut-out motor vehicle registration number plates.
Investigators suspect the two men could also be connected to other robberies reported in the region.
The DCI said detectives were pursuing additional leads to establish whether the suspects were involved in the other incidents and to identify any accomplices who may still be at large.
The two remain suspects as investigations continue, and the recovered items are expected to form part of the ongoing inquiries.
