Police in Kakamega County have detained nine individuals suspected of being part of a criminal gang following an intelligence-led operation in Bushangala, Kakamega South.
The raid, carried out with close community cooperation, resulted in the seizure of machetes, bows and arrows, and a club reportedly used in criminal acts.
In a statement released on Friday, the National Police Service (NPS) said the operation targeted persons suspected of violent activities and property destruction in the area.
“The individuals are suspected of involvement in organised crime, including criminal damage to property and assaults on police officers,” the statement read.
Police said the suspects are linked to multiple incidents involving attacks on officers and vandalism in the locality. The weapons recovered during the raid have been secured as critical evidence for ongoing investigations.
Following their arrest, the nine individuals were taken into custody and are undergoing formal processing before being presented in court. All recovered items have been properly logged and stored at the relevant police facility as part of procedural requirements.
The NPS highlighted the role of local residents in aiding the operation. “The National Police Service commends the public for providing crucial information and the officers involved for their swift response, which led to the successful arrests and recovery of items,” the statement added. Authorities emphasized that community cooperation remains vital in detecting and disrupting criminal networks.
The police service reaffirmed its commitment to public safety, saying vigilant and coordinated operations will continue in areas where criminal activities are suspected. “NPS remains steadfast in its commitment to serving and protecting the public,” the statement read.
The Bushangala arrests form part of a wider intelligence-driven strategy by the NPS to restore peace, enhance public trust, and ensure that those involved in criminal activities are brought to justice. Investigations into the suspects’ activities are ongoing, and law enforcement officers continue to gather evidence from the recovered weapons and intelligence collected during the operation.
The Service urged residents to remain alert and report suspicious behavior to authorities, reinforcing that collaborative policing is a cornerstone of crime prevention. The successful operation demonstrates the impact of timely intelligence, swift action by officers, and proactive community engagement in keeping counties safe.
