Police in Molo have arrested a suspect linked to a violent night robbery at a petrol station, where attackers posing as police officers tied up staff and stole cash and valuables.
The arrest followed a manhunt, during which officers recovered weapons and police-related uniform items, as they continue the search for an accomplice who remains at large.
According to a police statement, the incident involved two men wearing police jungle jackets who targeted a petrol station, overpowering workers before making off with cash and personal belongings.
Officers said the robbery occurred at night, heightening fear among staff on duty.
Police said the arrest followed a call reporting an ongoing robbery at Total Petrol Station. By the time officers arrived at the scene, the attackers had already struck, armed with crude weapons and intent on immobilising their victims.
The assailants reportedly pounced on the pump attendant and the watchman, tying them up with ropes before ransacking the premises.
Police said the attackers then fled into the darkness, escaping with cash, mobile phones and other personal valuables belonging to the victims.
In response, officers launched a swift manhunt for the two suspects, with security teams combing the area in pursuit of the fleeing duo, who had taken advantage of the cover of night to evade immediate capture.
The operation led to the arrest of the first suspect, identified as 55-year-old Joseph Daudi Bulinga.
Following his arrest, officers conducted a search and recovered several items believed to be linked to the crime. These included a claw bar, a police jungle jacket and a tear gas canister, raising concerns over the misuse of police gear in criminal activity.
Police said the recovery of the items strengthened the case against the suspect and would form part of the evidence presented in court.
Bulinga is currently in police custody as officers process him for arraignment. Investigators said preparations are underway to formally charge him in connection with the robbery.
Meanwhile, police said a hot pursuit is continuing for the second suspect, who remains on the run.
Efforts to track down the accomplice have been intensified, with officers following leads gathered from investigations and information provided by members of the public.
Members of the public were urged to remain vigilant and to report suspicious activity anonymously through the FichuaKwaDCI platform via the toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp line 0709 570 000.
