Trio linked to car-theft syndicate operating in Kenya, Tanzania detained for 14 days

The suspects, George Maloba, alias 'Pepe,' Martin Nyamai, and Morris Muli, were brought before the Machakos Law Courts on Thursday, where the prosecution successfully obtained a 14-day detention for further investigation into their alleged involvement in a web of criminal activities.

The arrests came after a foiled robbery with violence in Athi River, in which the suspects kidnapped two people, including the driver of an Isuzu D-Max hired to transport terrazzo. 

According to DCI detective Caleb Kipkemboi, on January 16, officers from Kwa Vonza police station received a report of a theft in which a Toyota Vitz blocked an Isuzu D-Max, six people alighted, handcuffed the driver, and forced him into the Vitz.

The victims, who were later released in the Kwa Vonza area after being kidnapped for several hours, stated that they were injured during the ordeal and had their phones stolen.

Local Bodaboda riders in the area responded to their distress calls and intercepted the suspicious Toyota Vitz. 

As the vehicle attempted to flee, it lost control, resulting in a chase in which three suspects were apprehended while one escaped.

Law enforcement officials believe the detained individuals, who have been linked to two previous robbery with violence incidents before the Machakos Law Courts, are part of a Kayole-based criminal network.

In the two active cases, the suspects are believed to have stolen two high-end Toyota Prados, which were later sold in Tanzania.

As the investigation unfolds, authorities are actively pursuing additional leads, including analysing cell phone records and conducting an identification parade. 

Meanwhile, as the manhunt for the gang's mastermind, who is believed to be hiding in Kayole, continues, the three suspects will be remanded in Machakos Police Station for 14 days. 

The prosecution strongly opposed any bail application, claiming that the individuals are a flight risk and may interfere with ongoing investigations.