Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) on Thursday arrested six individuals, including active Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) personnel, in a foiled robbery scheme aimed at a senior military officer in Kitengela.
The operation uncovered a sophisticated criminal network that combined insider knowledge from military members with civilian accomplices, raising concerns about security breaches within disciplined forces.
According to the DCI, the investigation began after credible intelligence received on Monday, March 23, 2026, indicated that the officer was at risk of an imminent robbery.
Detectives immediately placed the suspects under surveillance, tracking their movements and preparations as they planned the attack.
Authorities said the suspects had mapped out the operation carefully, involving two vehicles and attempting to access the target’s home through deception.
On the day of the attempted robbery, the suspects arrived in a black Toyota Harrier, while a Toyota Ractis remained nearby with a driver on standby. The DCI said the vehicles were strategically positioned as part of the plan.
A female suspect reportedly exited the Harrier and approached the main gate, pretending to seek entry.
Detectives, who had already secured the area, moved in immediately and arrested her. Backup teams then intercepted both vehicles, leading to the arrest of all six suspects.
The arrested individuals include Charles Kiio Matata, a KDF sergeant stationed at Kahawa Garrison; David Ng’aa Mwangangi, a civilian mechanic attached to Kahawa Barracks; Samuel Agango Odoyo, a KDF member currently on interdiction; Alex Mumo Kisilu of Umoja; Richard Mwania Muasya of Tala; and Stella Nzuki Mweni of Umoja Inner Core.
They are in custody, undergoing processing and questioning as investigations continue.
During a search at the scene, investigators recovered items believed to be intended for use in the robbery.
These included KDF jungle uniforms, military boots, a crowbar, a claw hammer, a knife, pliers, and several mobile phones.
Officials believe the military uniforms were intended to help the suspects gain access or avoid suspicion during the planned attack.
The DCI said the scene has been fully processed and that investigations are ongoing to determine the full scope of the syndicate’s operations and whether the suspects were involved in other criminal incidents.
In a statement released on Thursday, the agency said the operation successfully prevented a potentially serious crime involving individuals with military training and insider knowledge.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling organised criminal networks and ensuring all individuals involved in criminal activities, regardless of status, are brought to justice,” the statement read.
The agency urged the public to continue sharing information with law enforcement to help prevent crime and strengthen security across the country. The suspects are expected to face further legal proceedings once investigations are complete.
