Trio Arrested as Stolen Lorry, Maize Worth Sh1.7M Recovered
In a daring theft that reads like a crime thriller, Kajiado Central detectives, in collaboration with the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau from DCI Headquarters, have arrested three suspects involved in the theft of a Scania lorry loaded with maize worth Sh1.7 million. The lorry, registration number T260T CGS, was en route from Tanzania to Nairobi’s Industrial Area when the heist unfolded under bizarre circumstances.
How the Theft Happened: A Classic Con Job
According to a police report filed on March 19, 2025, the lorry’s driver had parked at Maduka ya Juu in Kajiado when the incident occurred. A woman, known to him, had joined the journey at the Namanga border. While the driver stepped away briefly to use a restroom, he returned to find the woman holding two soft drinks. After consuming one, he suddenly felt drowsy and collapsed inside the vehicle.
The next thing he knew, he woke up lying on the ground—the lorry, the woman, and the entire maize consignment had vanished!
Swift Police Action Leads to Breakthrough
Acting on intelligence, detectives launched a manhunt, leading to the recovery of the stolen lorry in Embakasi. The vehicle had been stripped of its cargo, but forensic evidence pointed investigators toward the culprits.
Three suspects were subsequently arrested:
- Rachael Nyambura Njuu, 29
- Ann Nyambura Maina, 32
- Mark Oluoch Mumasaba, 39
Further investigations revealed that the stolen maize was offloaded in Kiandutu, Thika, and sold to Swami Z Millers in Makongeni. The millers have since been summoned for questioning at SCCIO Kajiado to determine their involvement in the crime.
Driver in Custody as Probe Expands
The lorry’s driver remains in police custody, assisting detectives in piecing together the full extent of the crime. Authorities suspect this could be part of a larger syndicate specializing in drugging and robbing truck drivers.
What’s Next for the Suspects?
The three suspects are currently undergoing processing and will soon be arraigned in court. If convicted, they could face severe penalties under Kenya’s laws on theft and drug-related offenses.
Lessons from the Incident
This case highlights the dangers faced by long-distance truck drivers, especially along busy transit routes. Experts advise drivers to:
- Avoid accepting food or drinks from strangers
- Park in secure, well-lit areas
- Install tracking devices on vehicles
Conclusion
The swift recovery of the stolen lorry and the arrest of the suspects demonstrate the effectiveness of Kenya’s law enforcement in tackling organized crime. However, this incident serves as a stark reminder of the risks in the logistics industry.
