Police in Kisumu have successfully dismantled a suspected motor vehicle theft syndicate operating within Kisumu East Sub-county following an intelligence-led operation conducted at Khayeko Junction and Aliwa Village. The coordinated effort between officers from Migosi and Kasagam Police Stations resulted in the recovery of several vehicles believed to have been stolen, alongside car radios, vehicle registration plates, and assorted spare parts.
During the operation, two suspects were arrested and are currently assisting police with investigations, while a third suspect remains at large. All recovered vehicles and exhibits have been secured at Migosi Police Station, where verification of ownership is ongoing. Authorities commended the officers involved for their vigilance and professionalism, emphasizing the government’s commitment to tackling organized vehicle theft across the country.
The crackdown in Kisumu comes amid a surge in motor vehicle theft cases reported across Kenya. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has noted an alarming increase in vehicle-related crimes, which have caused significant financial losses to car owners and negatively impacted the economy through increased insurance claims and non-performing loans. Criminal syndicates have been using various tactics, including theft from parking lots, fraudulent car hire schemes, robbery with violence, and carjacking.
In response to the escalating threat, the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) and the Operations Action Team (OAT) under the DCI have intensified nationwide crackdowns in high-risk counties such as Kisumu, Nairobi, Kiambu, Kakamega, and Bungoma. The recent operations have seen 28 suspects arrested and 22 stolen vehicles recovered, some of which had already been sold to unsuspecting buyers or smuggled into neighboring countries, including Uganda and Tanzania.
Authorities have urged motorists to take proactive measures to safeguard their vehicles by installing reliable anti-theft devices, parking in secure areas, and verifying vehicle documents or car hire credentials before transacting. Enhanced intelligence sharing and cross-border cooperation are also being prioritized to curb vehicle trafficking and ensure swift recovery of stolen cars.
The police have encouraged the public to play an active role in crime prevention by reporting suspicious activities through the toll-free hotlines 999, 911, or 112, or anonymously via #FichuaKwaDCI on 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000. The operation highlights the ongoing commitment by law enforcement agencies to dismantle organized criminal networks and restore public confidence in Kenya’s security systems.
