Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Headquarters’ Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB), in conjunction with their DCI Kabete counterparts, have successfully apprehended two notorious suspects believed to be the masterminds behind a series of housebreaking incidents in Kiambu and Nairobi Counties. The suspects, Lavender Akinyi Ogilo and Vincent Odhiambo Otieno, have been linked to two recent housebreaking and theft incidents that occurred on April 1 and April 19, 2024.
The first incident took place on April 1, 2024, when police at Kibiku Police Station received a report of a housebreaking at house No. 17 of the luxurious Kitisuru Terraces, located in the affluent suburb of Kitisuru in Gathiga, Nairobi. The culprits had gained entry by removing a window pane from the kitchen door and mastering the padlock. Among the items stolen were a 55-inch TCL TV, a 40-inch Samsung TV, a wristwatch, an iPad, a computer monitor, a MacBook laptop, wall paintings, carpets, and various other valuables. The boldness and precision of the burglary indicated a level of sophistication and planning characteristic of experienced criminals.
The second incident occurred on April 19, 2024, at Oak Valley Apartments along Mvuli Road in Kileleshwa. Six perpetrators broke into an apartment by mastering the lock of the main door. However, their plans were thwarted when the homeowner unexpectedly returned, interrupting their operation. Although the invaders managed to escape with a significant amount of cash, the homeowner was able to spot them fleeing into a waiting white vehicle with the registration number KDG 305C. Despite being slightly injured during the confrontation, the victim’s quick action provided crucial information to the authorities.
Following a relentless manhunt spanning several days, detectives successfully apprehended Lavender Akinyi Ogilo and Vincent Odhiambo Otieno. Both suspects are well-known to the authorities, with extensive criminal records and previous court appearances. Lavender was apprehended at her four-bedroom house in Kirigiti, while Vincent was captured at a base in Kasarani. The arrest also led to the impounding of a black Mercedes Benz T733 DTP, believed to have been used by the suspects in their criminal activities.
Efforts are currently underway to apprehend the remaining four accomplices involved in the housebreaking incidents. The police are confident that their capture is imminent, given the detailed information and evidence already gathered.
This recent arrest is not the first time Lavender Akinyi Ogilo and Vincent Odhiambo Otieno have found themselves on the wrong side of the law. On May 18, 2019, they were among a gang of six individuals arrested and arraigned by Kilimani detectives for a violent robbery. Lavender, in particular, had a warrant of arrest issued against her for absconding court proceedings, highlighting her continuous defiance of the law.
The arrest of these notorious housebreakers is a significant victory for the DCI and the community at large. Housebreaking incidents have been a growing concern in Nairobi and Kiambu Counties, with residents increasingly worried about their safety and the security of their properties. The successful apprehension of these suspects is expected to bring a sense of relief and reassurance to the affected communities.
The DCI has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety and security of all citizens. They have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the authorities. The collaboration between the DCI Headquarters’ CRIB and the DCI Kabete counterparts demonstrates the effectiveness of coordinated efforts in combating crime.
As the investigation continues and efforts to apprehend the remaining suspects intensify, the police are confident that justice will be served. The arrest of Lavender Akinyi Ogilo and Vincent Odhiambo Otieno serves as a stern warning to other criminals that the law will eventually catch up with them.
The public is encouraged to support the police by providing any information that may lead to the arrest of the remaining suspects.
