Detectives have arrested a suspected member of a violent robbery gang in Kisumu, recovering a stolen G3 rifle and a vehicle believed to have been used in a string of attacks across Kisumu and Kakamega counties, in a breakthrough linked to ongoing investigations into crimes reported in February and March 2026.
The suspect, whose identity is being withheld ahead of an identification parade, is in police custody and is expected to be arraigned as investigations continue. Officers are still pursuing other members of the gang and working to recover a second missing firearm believed to be in circulation.
Authorities say the suspect was operating with several accomplices and has been linked to multiple robberies that have left victims injured and property stolen. Following the arrest, detectives recovered a motor vehicle, registration number KDH 812L, suspected to have been used as a getaway car, along with items believed to have been stolen during the attacks.
Investigations have established that the recovered G3 rifle is one of the weapons stolen during a raid on Nyalenda Police Patrol Base on February 27, 2026. During that incident, several officers and a civilian were injured, and two loaded G3 rifles were taken by the attackers.
The suspect is also connected to a robbery that took place on March 17, 2026, at Arena Phase 4 Estate in Kisumu Central Sub-County. In that incident, a group armed with the recovered firearm, a panga, and other crude weapons stormed a business premises, making away with a television, woofer, computers, mobile phones, and other valuables before escaping in a waiting vehicle.
In Kakamega County, the suspect is linked to another attack on March 9, 2026, at Duka Moja Shopping Centre in Kakamega South Sub-County. Together with two accomplices, they reportedly used a motorcycle and were armed with a firearm and crude weapons as they robbed victims of cash, a laptop, and several phones before fleeing.
The gang is further believed to have carried out another robbery in Kajulu, Kisumu East Sub-County, where the same G3 rifle was reportedly used. During that incident, the suspects fired a shot at a shop door to force entry, then stole money, phones, and other items before escaping on a motorcycle with a concealed number plate.
Police say these incidents form part of a wider pattern of violent robberies reported in February, including the attack on the Nyalenda Police Patrol Base that led to the theft of firearms.
Following the series of crimes, detectives launched coordinated operations that led to the arrest of the suspect and recovery of key evidence, including the firearm and the suspected getaway vehicle.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling criminal networks and ensuring public safety, noting that the operation marks progress in efforts to curb violent crime in the region.
Authorities are appealing to members of the public to share any information that could help in tracking down the remaining suspects and recovering the second firearm. Members of the public can call the toll-free line at 0800 722 203 or send anonymous messages via WhatsApp to 0709 570 000.
Detectives say the recovery of the firearm and vehicle is expected to disrupt further attacks and strengthen the case against those involved. Investigations remain active as officers work to bring all suspects to justice and recover stolen property.
The case highlights the continued threat posed by organized criminal gangs in Kisumu and Kakamega, even as law enforcement agencies intensify efforts to respond through intelligence-led operations and closer cooperation with the public.