Police in Kiambu County have foiled an attempted burglary after officers on patrol intercepted five suspects trying to break into a shop in Ruiru, recovering suspected drugs, burglary tools and a vehicle fitted with false number plates.
According to a statement from the National Police Service (NPS), officers from Gatong’ora Police Station were conducting routine early morning patrols in the Destiny area of Ruiru when they came across the suspects in the act.
“Police officers from Gatong’ora Police Station today thwarted an attempt to break into a shop in the Destiny area of Ruiru, Kiambu County,” the statement said.
Police said the suspects attempted to flee after spotting the officers, jumping into a standby vehicle parked nearby.
A pursuit followed, with officers firing at the rear tyres of the vehicle in an effort to stop it.
“On spotting the police, the suspects tried to escape in a standby vehicle. A chase ensued, during which police fired at the vehicle’s rear tyres, forcing it to stop,” the NPS said.
The suspects reportedly abandoned the vehicle moments later and fled the scene on foot, managing to evade arrest.
Officers subsequently searched the vehicle and made several recoveries linked to criminal activity.
“A search of the vehicle revealed it was fitted with false number plates,” the police said, adding that officers also recovered additional counterfeit plates, a toy pistol, two crowbars, six master keys, three rolls of suspected cannabis, and other assorted items.
The vehicle was impounded and taken to the police station as investigations continue. Police said efforts are underway to trace and arrest the five suspects who escaped.
“The vehicle has been impounded and is currently in police custody as efforts to trace and arrest the five suspects continue,” the statement said.
The incident comes amid heightened security operations by the National Police Service during the festive season, a period often associated with a spike in criminal activity.
“The National Police Service has intensified efforts to curb the rise in crime often witnessed during the festive season,” the statement said.
“Officers are conducting regular foot and mobile patrols, vehicle checks, and intelligence-led operations aimed at deterring criminal activity and ensuring public safety as people travel, shop, and celebrate.”
Police urged members of the public to remain vigilant and to report any suspicious activity to authorities, as security agencies continue to step up measures to protect lives and property across the country.
