Detectives in Meru have arrested a 47-year-old former convict suspected of leading a violent robbery ring in the Igembe region. The suspect, recently released after serving 15 years in prison for murder, is alleged to have armed himself and orchestrated attacks across multiple towns.
During a police operation, officers recovered a submachine gun hidden in a miraa plantation.
The suspect, identified as Jason Kobia Mucoka, was apprehended in a coordinated operation involving the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Kenya Police Service (KPS), and the Administration Police Service (APS).
Authorities said he had been linked to robberies that had spread fear among residents in Mutuati, Laare, Maua, and surrounding areas.
Investigators noted that Mucoka returned to criminal activities shortly after his release, recruiting others to form gangs operating in the region. Police reports indicate the network was behind violent robberies targeting both residents and local businesses.
Some gang members have been arrested, while others remain at large.
Officials added that the suspect had issued threats, warning residents in Kabachi that he would shoot anyone who opposed him. The operation that led to his arrest followed intelligence connecting him to the criminal activities.
During interrogation, Mucoka reportedly revealed the location of a firearm linked to the robberies. Police recovered a Pachet submachine gun with six rounds of 9mm ammunition from a nearby miraa plantation. Authorities believe the weapon may have been used to intimidate victims during the attacks.
The firearm and ammunition have been taken to the National Police Forensic Laboratory for ballistic tests, which will determine if the weapon was involved in other crimes.
Meanwhile, Mucoka remains in custody and is expected to face charges including robbery with violence, illegal possession of a firearm, and threats to kill.
Investigators are continuing efforts to identify additional suspects and trace the source of the weapon and ammunition. Authorities said they are working to dismantle the criminal network and prevent further violent incidents in Meru County.
Police have appealed to residents to provide information that could help track down accomplices still at large.
The arrest is considered a major breakthrough in ongoing operations aimed at restoring safety and curbing armed robberies in the region. Authorities say the probe will continue until all individuals connected to the gang are identified and brought before the courts.