How DCI Tracked Down Suspected Robber Who Changed Getaway Car’s Number Plates

DCI detectives from Malindi Police Station have arrested a man who is suspected of being involved in a series of robbery with violence incidents reported in Malindi and Mombasa.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the suspect, who is identified as Jesmshid Kadirbakshi, had been under surveillance over his alleged role in a robbery that took place in Mombasa on June 11, 2026.

Police said investigations established that Kadirbakshi allegedly hired a Toyota Fielder, registration number KDQ 085R, in Malindi before using it as a getaway vehicle during the robbery.

The vehicle was later recovered in Mombasa after it was linked to the robbery with violence incident.

Vehicle Identity

Detectives further established that the suspect allegedly altered the vehicle’s registration plates from KDQ 085R to KDS 223G in an attempt to conceal its identity and avoid detection by law enforcement agencies.

The arrest followed what detectives described as sustained surveillance that enabled officers to trace the suspect to his hideout in the Kwachocha area of Malindi.

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He was apprehended without incident during the operation.

During a search that was conducted after the arrest, detectives recovered a knife and a black handbag containing a substance suspected to be cannabis sativa.

Recovered Items 

The recovered items have been taken into police custody as investigations continue taking place.

Police have not disclosed whether the suspect acted alone or as part of a wider criminal network.

However, detectives indicated that investigations remain active as they seek to establish the full circumstances surrounding the robbery and identify any additional suspects who may have been involved.

Robbery with violence remains one of the most serious offences under Kenyan law and is often investigated by specialised detectives due to its nature.

Suspect In Custody

Police have continued to urge members of the public to report suspicious activities and provide information that may assist in preventing crime and bringing offenders to justice.

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The DCI said Kadirbakshi is currently being held in police custody while processing is underway before his arraignment in court.

DCI added that investigations into the robbery with violence incidents in Malindi and Mombasa are ongoing.

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Items recovered by detectives
PHOTO/DCI