A wave of relief is sweeping across Kajiado, Kiambu and Nairobi counties following the decisive arrest of key suspects linked to a string of robbery with violence and murder incidents that had cast a dark shadow over traders in recent weeks.
In a major breakthrough, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) dismantled what investigators describe as a well-coordinated criminal syndicate that had been targeting wines and spirits outlets across the three counties.
For months, traders—particularly in Ongata Rongai, Karen, Ruiru and Juja—lived in fear as a ruthless gang armed with crude weapons struck with calculated precision.
The suspects reportedly dispossessed business owners of cash and stock, vandalized premises, and in some heartbreaking cases, left behind serious injuries and death.
What initially appeared to be isolated incidents soon revealed a chilling pattern: coordinated surveillance of targeted outlets, swift night-time attacks, and an organized network for disposing of stolen alcoholic consignments.
Mastermind Arrested in Nakuru
The turning point came after weeks of forensic tracking and intelligence gathering. Detectives tracked down Peter Muhia Njenga, believed to be the mastermind and chief coordinator of the illicit network, to a hideout in Nakuru County, where he was arrested.
His apprehension paved the way for the arrest of his alleged accomplices.
John Mugo Nderito, suspected to be the key receiver and distributor of stolen alcoholic products, was arrested in Ruiru.
Meanwhile, Elisha Njeri Katito—allegedly the owner of vehicles used for surveillance, getaway missions and transporting stolen goods—was cornered in the Juja area.
Investigators say the arrests effectively dismantled the logistical backbone of the criminal enterprise.
Victims Identify Recovered Property
Following the arrests, victims of robbery with violence from Ongata Rongai and Karen have streamed to Kikuyu Police Station to positively identify recovered property.
Among the items presented are assorted alcoholic products bearing unique identification marks placed by traders to track their stock.
Police stations handling related incidents across the affected counties have been notified to support the ongoing probe, as authorities work to ensure no victim is left unheard and no lead left unpursued.
Forensic experts from the DCI’s Photographic Imaging and Acoustics Unit are intensifying efforts to retrieve and analyze CCTV footage from affected outlets.
Investigators say the visual and acoustic evidence will play a crucial role in corroborating witness statements and strengthening the prosecution’s case in court.
The suspects remain in custody as processing and arraignment procedures are finalized.
The DCI has commended members of the public who shared vital information that led to the arrests, reiterating that security is a shared responsibility.
With the syndicate dismantled, traders across Kajiado, Kiambu and Nairobi are beginning to breathe easier as authorities signal a renewed crackdown on organized crime networks targeting small businesses.
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