The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) detectives in Buuri East, Embu County, have arrested two suspects linked to a violent robbery incident and recovered an AK47 rifle.
The two suspects are accused of terrorizing residents in Buuri East, Tigania West, and surrounding areas through a series of armed robberies. The latest incident that led to their arrest began when gunfire erupted near Mungania Shopping Centre. The detectives, who were already on high alert following reports of increasing insecurity, responded quickly to the scene.
Upon arrival, they found the robbers, armed with an AK47 rifle, attempting to rob a member of the National Police Reserve (NPR). In a brave act of self-defense, the police officer fired two warning shots into the air. The unexpected gunfire caused the criminals to panic and flee the scene, abandoning their weapon in the process.
The detectives’ swift intervention also led them to the suspects’ getaway vehicle, a Toyota Vitz with registration number KCE 435Q, found abandoned near the crime scene. While trying to escape, a female suspect, Christian Saina Korosian, was caught near the vehicle. Her accomplice, Moses Kayiok Noomeyo, was later arrested while hiding in a nearby house.
Further investigations uncovered that the suspects had been involved in another daring robbery just before this incident. The gang, disguised in jungle military uniforms and armed with two AK47 rifles, had stormed into an M-Pesa shop at Maritati Centre in Timau. They ordered the attendant to open the door, and when she hesitated, they fired a shot at her. Fortunately, she dodged the bullet and took cover in a nearby room.
Determined to carry out their robbery, the gang smashed the glass shelf displaying mobile phones and stole 15 smartphones. During their escape, they also shot at a customer who was unaware of the robbery, causing injuries to the person’s right hip. A second victim sustained a gunshot wound to the left arm.
At the abandoned getaway vehicle, detectives recovered jungle green trousers matching those worn by the robbers, as seen on CCTV footage from the M-Pesa shop robbery.
The suspects remain in custody and are undergoing processing while awaiting arraignment. The recovered firearm and ammunition have been secured as evidence as detectives continue their investigation. They are pursuing additional leads to apprehend a third accomplice who managed to evade capture during the police operation.
This arrest is a significant breakthrough in curbing the recent wave of armed robberies in the region. The suspects’ bold and violent tactics had left residents fearful, especially as the gang’s operations extended across multiple areas. Their use of military-style attire and weapons indicates a high level of organization and planning, which posed a serious threat to community safety.
Law enforcement officials have reiterated their commitment to maintaining security and urged residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities. The swift police response and collaboration with the community were crucial in disrupting this gang’s activities and preventing further crimes.
Authorities are also examining whether the suspects are linked to other criminal activities in the region, as the level of sophistication and violence suggests they might be part of a larger network. Efforts to track down the remaining accomplice and dismantle the gang entirely are ongoing.
This case highlights the importance of community cooperation with law enforcement agencies and the role of timely intelligence in combating crime. The use of CCTV footage was instrumental in identifying the suspects and linking them to the M-Pesa shop robbery.
As the suspects await court proceedings, the police continue to enhance security measures in Buuri East and neighboring areas to prevent similar incidents in the future. The recovered AK47 rifle and ammunition will be key evidence in ensuring justice is served.
The arrest sends a strong message to criminals that violent crime and robbery will not be tolerated, and those involved will face swift legal action. It also brings some relief to residents who have lived in fear due to the gang’s reign of terror.
Moving forward, the authorities plan to intensify patrols and community policing initiatives to restore peace and order. The public is encouraged to support these efforts by providing information that could lead to the arrest of other criminals and improve overall safety in the region.
