A joint team of detectives from Nairobi and Kiambu has dismantled a notorious gang that had been terrorising wine and spirits shop owners across the city.

The arrests followed a series of intelligence-led operations that exposed how the criminals had been executing late-night robberies with near-military precision.

The operation, launched after weeks of tracking, culminated in a dramatic ambush in Ngara, where police cornered two key suspects; Edward Muchiri Mureithi, alias Kazee, and Stephen Mwenda Ndung’u, alias Stevoo.

The two were reportedly part of a well-organised ring responsible for multiple violent break-ins targeting liquor businesses.

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Chase Through Nairobi Streets and Recovery of Key Evidence

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the suspects attempted to flee upon noticing the detectives closing in.

A brief chase ensued before they abandoned their getaway vehicle, a black Toyota Harrier, registration KDS 791A, in a bid to escape on foot.

Police seized the car, which is now being processed as key evidence in the ongoing investigation.

The sting operation extended to Njiru Makongeni, where a third suspect, Martin Ndung’u Wangui, was arrested.

Detectives recovered a black Toyota Noah (KCY 982C) believed to have been used to ferry stolen liquor.

Inside the vehicle, officers reportedly found traces of spilled alcohol, suggesting it had been recently used during one of the heists.

Hunt for the Gang Leader Intensifies

Following the arrests, detectives proceeded to Mugutha, Ruiru, in search of the gang’s alleged mastermind, Peter Muhia Njenga, who remains at large.

Acting on a search warrant, officers raided his compound, unearthing a trove of incriminating evidence.

Among the recovered items were car seats matching those taken from the impounded Toyota Noah, a vehicle number plate (KCV 342G), several mobile phones, break-in tools, and a distinctive hoodie captured on CCTV during a previous robbery.

Scattered around the compound were numerous empty cartons of premium liquor, believed to have been looted from targeted wine and spirits shops.

Detectives also discovered 25 bulls suspected to be stolen and stashed at Njenga’s secondary property in Njiru.

The livestock was escorted to Ruai Police Station as investigations to identify their rightful owners continue.

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DCI Urges Public to Provide Information

The DCI has now intensified efforts to track down Njenga, describing him as the main architect of the criminal network.

The agency has called on members of the public to share any information that could lead to his capture.

“#FichuaKwaDCI. Call 0800 722 203 (Toll-free) or WhatsApp 0709 570 000 to report anonymously. Usiogope!” DCI said in a statement.

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Kenya police vehicle at crime scene. PHOTO/FILE