Detectives Arrest 10-Member Gang Behind Nairobi Godown Break-in

By Samuel Ouma

A 10-man gang believed to be behind a series of brazen break-ins has been arrested, bringing some relief to the city's business community.

The suspects, aged between 36 and 50, have allegedly planned and executed multiple break-in incidents across Nairobi, targeting valuable goods such as hardware supplies, steel products, lubricants, and motor vehicle spare parts.

The arrested individuals include Paul Njoroge Muthoni, 39; Job Onsomu Onkundi, 38; Erick Irungu Karanja, 37; Daniel Opiyo Oketch, 45; and James Maina Githua, 36.

Others are Joseph Maina Wambugu, 50; Patrick Karani, 39; Peter Karangi, 44; Peter Karanja Kanyoro, 42; and Mathew Riunge Karinge, 46.

“The arrest was the result of a coordinated operation by DCI’s Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) Nairobi area and DCI Kasarani, who tracked the gang to their hideouts within Nairobi and its surroundings,” said DCI.

During interrogations, the suspects led detectives to Faith Estate in Riverside Court, Juja-Murera, where 463 cartons of stolen lubricants were recovered.

These items were previously stolen from a godown at Thika Industrial Park. In addition to the stolen goods, four motor vehicles linked to the break-ins were also seized.

The gang’s activities have spanned several months and include high-profile break-ins that left many business owners devastated.

In April 2024, the gang broke into two godowns belonging to Syzo International in Mwiki, on the outskirts of Nairobi, where they stole hardware items and laptops. More recently, on July 26th, 2024, they carried out a brutal attack on Patnet Steel Makers in Kamulu.

During the incident, they scaled the walls of the facility, tied up two security guards, ambushed the night shift workers, and tragically killed one employee before making off with tonnes of nails and barbed wire.

The DCI has vowed to continue its investigation, promising further arrests and the recovery of more stolen goods.

“We are committed to maintaining a proactive and professional approach in investigating crimes, protecting lives and property, apprehending offenders, and ensuring their prosecution,” stated DCI.