Police in Machakos Township arrested five suspected burglars and recovered a cache of items believed to have been stolen during a break-in along Kitui Road, in an operation the National Police Service (NPS) says was aided by timely intelligence and a rapid response by officers on patrol.
According to a statement issued by the National Police Service on Thursday, officers from Machakos Police Station intercepted the suspects after receiving information about an ongoing burglary.
The officers were conducting a routine patrol when the alert was received, prompting immediate action.
The police said the suspects were found “in possession of items believed to have been stolen during a burglary on Kitui Road, Machakos Township.”
Following their arrest, the suspects allegedly cooperated with investigators, leading officers to another location where additional items were recovered.
“The suspects subsequently led officers to a location where a television, a keg pump, audio equipment, and assorted alcoholic beverages were recovered,” the statement said.
All five suspects were taken to Machakos Police Station, where they are being held as investigations continue. Police said the suspects are pending processing and arraignment in court, in line with criminal procedure requirements.
The recovery of household and commercial items points to what police believe may have been a targeted burglary, potentially affecting a business premise or a residence with entertainment equipment.
However, police did not immediately disclose details of the victim or the estimated value of the recovered property.
The NPS praised the coordination between members of the public and officers on the ground, saying the arrests reaffirmed the importance of community cooperation in crime prevention.
“The National Police Service commends both the public and its officers for the successful operation,” the statement said, adding that the service remains resolute in its commitment to serving and protecting the public.
The incident highlights the role of routine patrols in deterring crime within urban centres such as Machakos Township, where cases of burglary and theft have previously been linked to opportunistic criminals exploiting gaps in surveillance and response times.
Police say the swift intervention in this case prevented the suspects from disposing of the stolen items, increasing the likelihood that the recovered property will be returned to its rightful owners once investigations are completed.
The National Police Service also used the opportunity to renew its appeal for public cooperation, urging citizens to report suspicious activities promptly through established channels.
“Members of the public are urged to continue cooperating with the police by providing information through the toll-free numbers 999, 911, or 112,” the statement said.
The service also encouraged anonymous reporting through the Directorate of Criminal Investigations tip line, “#FichuaKwaDCI on 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.”
Police have increasingly relied on such hotlines and digital platforms to receive real-time information from the public, which they say has enhanced response times and improved outcomes in crime-fighting operations.
As investigations continue, detectives are expected to establish whether the suspects are linked to other burglary incidents within Machakos County or neighbouring areas.
Police said further details would be provided as the case progresses through the justice system.
For now, the National Police Service says the arrests send a clear message that criminal activity will be met with swift action, particularly when supported by vigilant communities and proactive policing.
