Authorities have arrested eight individuals suspected to be part of a sophisticated livestock theft network that has been terrorizing farmers across Kirinyaga, Embu, Nyeri, and Murang’a counties. The suspects, who include thieves, buyers, transporters, and butchers, were apprehended in a planned operation in Kagio and Mwea towns.
The crackdown follows weeks of intelligence-led investigations that revealed how the group operated under the cover of darkness, targeting cattle in rural homesteads before swiftly transporting them to pre-arranged buyers. Their activities had spread fear among farmers who rely heavily on livestock for their livelihoods.
The suspects were caught off guard just as they were preparing for another raid. Among those arrested 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 the latter identified as a notorious livestock buyer in Mwea.
Investigations show that the syndicate was well-structured, with each member playing a specific role. Some were tasked with stealing and driving away cattle, while others provided transportation and facilitated quick sales in nearby towns and butcheries. This organization allowed them to evade detection for a long period, leaving farmers counting heavy losses.
The arrests mark a significant breakthrough in efforts to curb livestock theft, a crime that has increasingly become organized and commercialized. By dismantling such networks, security agencies aim to protect farming communities from economic sabotage.
The suspects are currently in custody and are expected to be arraigned in court once processing is complete. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to eradicating organized crime, promising continued operations to track down accomplices and dismantle other existing networks.
For farmers, the arrests bring a measure of relief after months of tension and uncertainty. Many livestock keepers in central Kenya had been forced to increase security around their homesteads, with some incurring additional costs in night patrols and reinforced enclosures.
Efforts are ongoing to recover stolen livestock and trace the wider chain of buyers and suppliers linked to the syndicate. Security agencies have called on communities to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activities to ensure the protection of livelihoods and the restoration of trust in rural areas.
