DCI Arrests 8 Suspects Behind Wave of Mt Kenya Counties in Mt Kenya Counties

DCI Arrests 8 Suspects Behind Wave of Livestock Thefts in Mt Kenya Counties

For months, livestock farmers in Mt Kenya counties lived in terror. Night after night, cattle vanished under mysterious circumstances.

But on Sunday, August 31, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) finally struck back. They arrested eight suspects believed to be the masterminds of the thefts.

How the Criminals Operated

According to DCI, the group operated across Kirinyaga, Embu, Nyeri, and Murang’a counties. They allegedly struck under the cover of darkness.

The suspects, police said, left farmers counting heavy losses and fearing for their safety.

“Following a series of intelligence-led investigations, detectives have arrested eight individuals suspected of being behind a wave of livestock thefts that have plagued Kirinyaga, Embu, Nyeri, and Murang’a counties,” DCI said.

The Sting in Kagio and Mwea

Detectives moved in during a raid in Kagio and Mwea towns, Kirinyaga County.

The suspects were reportedly planning another theft when they were ambushed.

“Unaware that their criminal activities had been under close forensic scrutiny, the suspects were caught off guard during a planned raid in Kagio and Mwea towns, just as they were preparing to strike again,” DCI added.

Who Are the Suspects?

The eight suspects are Patrick Wanjohi Njoki, Peter Muriithi Ngari, Lukes Ochieng Olao, Simon Karagu Murigi, Anthony Mutugi, Daniel Kinyua Wangari, Samuel Gitonga Miano, and Cecilia Wanja Njogu.

Njogu, police revealed, is a well-known livestock buyer in Mwea.

Investigations further revealed that the group included not only thieves but also transporters, butchers, and buyers. Each played a role in the network.

What Next for the Suspects?

The eight remain in custody as detectives prepare them for arraignment.

Meanwhile, DCI assured farmers of continued efforts to dismantle such syndicates.

“The National Police Service reaffirms its commitment to rooting out organised crime and ensuring such individuals are held accountable. Efforts continue to protect the livelihoods of hardworking farmers across the country,” the statement read.

The Cost of Cattle Theft

Authorities estimate farmers in Mt Kenya lose up to KSh 600 million annually to cattle theft.

Former Central Regional Commissioner Wilfred Nyagwanga earlier warned that most of the thieves operate with homemade guns.

The worst-hit areas include Ndia in Kirinyaga, Mbeere South in Embu, and several wards in Murang’a.

For now, the arrests bring hope to farmers. Yet, the fight against livestock theft remains far from over.

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DCI Arrests 8 Suspects Behind Wave of Livestock Thefts in Mt Kenya Counties