A man and a police officer were arrested after a couple engaged in online business was allegedly kidnapped and robbed by a gang posing as buyers in Nairobi.
Police said the incident was reported after the couple travelled to Baba Dogo at about 3pm to deliver an Apple smartwatch to a customer who had allegedly placed the order online.
Upon arrival, the couple was reportedly confronted by three men who forced them into a waiting white Toyota Axio, where two other suspects were waiting. The male victim was handcuffed as the gang drove them towards Thika Road.
The suspects allegedly took the victims to Shell Roasters along Thika Road and ordered the man to withdraw money. He managed to withdraw Sh17,000, but the gang rejected the amount and demanded Sh1 million.
They later drove to Equity Bank in Githurai, where the gang ordered the man to withdraw more money while holding his wife hostage inside the vehicle.
Once inside the bank, the victim discreetly alerted a bank teller, who notified police officers guarding the premises. Police officers assisted by a nearby patrol team, responded immediately.
On spotting the officers, three suspects fled on foot while the driver sped away with the female victim. Police fired warning shots and managed to corner and arrest one suspect.
During interrogation, police said the suspect admitted that five people had been involved in the crime and identified the escaped suspects. He also told investigators that the getaway vehicle belonged to him. Police are investigating claims that two of the suspects may be police officers.
One of the police officers was also arrested over the issue. He is an inspector attached to Drive Inn police, officials said.
The gang allegedly stole five mobile phones valued at about Sh120,000 and an Apple smartwatch worth approximately Sh2,500.
The female victim was later released unharmed along Kamiti Road.
Police have launched a manhunt for the remaining suspects as investigations continue.
Such cases have been on the rise amid police efforts to address the trend.
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