DCI detectives have arrested a suspect described as a notorious fugitive in Mtwapa, Kilifi Cunty, as security operations intensify along Kenya’s Coast.
Officers say five rounds of ammunition were recovered during a search. The suspect remains in custody as investigations continue into alleged robbery incidents and possible accomplices.
In a statement released on Monday, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said “the momentum of the ongoing security operation across the Coast region continues to gather pace, delivering yet another decisive blow to criminal networks that have long sought to destabilise the tranquillity of our coastal communities.”
The suspect, identified by police as David Juma Mweru, had allegedly been on the run and was wanted in connection with several robbery incidents.
Police described him as a notorious figure who had become a subject of sustained pursuit in Mtwapa.
According to investigators, the suspect had allegedly evaded police dragnets on multiple occasions, constantly shifting hideouts in a calculated attempt to stay ahead of the law.
Officers said they acted on intelligence to track him down. “Acting on actionable intelligence, officers cornered the suspect and effected his arrest without incident,” the statement added.
A search conducted at the suspect’s residence reportedly led to the recovery of ammunition. Police said a thorough and detailed search at his residence yielded five (5) rounds of 7.62mm special ammunition carefully wrapped in a yellow carrier bag, a chilling indicator of potential violent intent.
Authorities did not indicate whether any firearm was recovered, but confirmed that the suspect is being held as investigations continue.
“The suspect is currently in custody while undergoing further processing as investigations intensify to establish the full extent of his criminal links and possible accomplices,” the DCI said.
The arrest comes amid heightened security operations in parts of the Coast region, where law enforcement agencies say they are working to dismantle organised criminal networks.
Police say the latest arrest reaffirms their commitment to pursuing suspects who attempt to evade capture.
The DCI described the broader campaign as sending “a clear and unequivocal message, criminal gangs operating within the Coast region and across the country will find no safe haven.”
The agency added that it “remains steadfast, vigilant and unrelenting in its mission to safeguard lives, protect property and restore public confidence.”
While authorities have not released further details about the robbery incidents linked to the suspect, they indicated that investigations are ongoing and could lead to additional arrests.
The Coast region has periodically experienced security operations aimed at curbing armed robbery and gang-related activities, particularly in rapidly growing urban centres.
Police have urged members of the public to support the crackdown by sharing information. In its statement, the DCI encouraged citizens to report criminal activity anonymously.
“#FichuaKwaDCI. Call 0800 722 203 (Toll-free) or WhatsApp at 0709 570 000 to report anonymously. Usiogope!” the statement concluded.
As investigations continue, authorities say they are focused on consolidating recent gains in the operation and preventing criminal groups from regrouping.
For now, the arrest of the suspect marks what police have described as another milestone in their effort to tighten the net around individuals they accuse of threatening security in the Coast region.
