Residents of Kajiado County can finally breathe a sigh of relief after detectives from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) apprehended six suspects believed to be behind a series of violent robberies targeting missionary camps and surrounding communities. The arrests mark a significant breakthrough in an operation that has been ongoing since early August 2025.
The August 8 Attack That Sparked the Manhunt
The turning point came on August 8, 2025, when the gang staged a daring nighttime attack at the Korean Mission Camp (MCK) in the Elerai area of Mashuuru Sub-County. According to police reports, the suspects were dressed in police jungle fatigues and armed with crude weapons, a disguise that allowed them to move undetected before striking.
Tragically, the attackers fatally injured a watchman who had been guarding the facility, sparking outrage among residents and missionary workers in the region. Investigators later linked the same group to other violent robberies in Kimana, Mashuru, Wote, and neighboring areas, pointing to a well-coordinated criminal network that had terrorized communities for months.
First Arrests in Kitengela and Machakos Junction
Following the Elerai incident, CRIB detectives launched an intensive manhunt. On August 19, 2025, the first breakthrough came when the team arrested Muoki Mulee in Kitengela. Later that day, another key suspect, Ambrose Mutuku, was nabbed near Machakos Junction.
Interrogations revealed chilling details of the gang’s operations. Ambrose later led detectives to his residence in Kitulu village, Machakos County. During a thorough search of the premises, officers recovered police jungle uniforms believed to have been used during the robberies, as well as Sh49,000 in cash, suspected to be proceeds from their criminal activities.
Ex-Convicts Behind Bars Again
Preliminary investigations painted a worrying picture. Both Mulee and Mutuku were confirmed to be ex-convicts who had recently completed jail terms. The two had been released from Machakos Prison in December 2024. Instead of reforming, detectives believe the men quickly returned to crime, recruiting other members and forming a violent gang that specialized in robbing missionary institutions and vulnerable communities in remote parts of Kajiado and beyond.
Four More Suspects Arrested in Matungulu
The scope of the investigation was widened to Kantafu in Matungulu Sub-County, where detectives tracked down four additional suspects. The individuals were later identified as Dominic Moenga Mwambi, Joseph Mamai, Gideon Nyaga Njeri, and Alex Mwaura Waweru.
In addition to the arrests, detectives impounded three vehicles believed to have been used in ferrying suspects and stolen goods. The vehicles, with registration numbers KDJ 066S, KCX 851Q, and KDP 825D, are undergoing forensic analysis to establish their direct involvement in the robberies.
Crackdown on Criminal Networks
According to police sources, the arrests highlight the ongoing efforts by law enforcement agencies to dismantle criminal gangs operating across counties. The suspects are currently being processed in custody and are expected to face multiple charges including murder, violent robbery, and impersonating police officers.
The Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) noted that the suspects’ use of police jungle fatigues was particularly concerning, as it raised the possibility of unsuspecting civilians mistaking them for genuine officers. Authorities are now probing how the uniforms were acquired and whether there are links to corrupt supply chains.
Relief for Residents and Missionary Camps
For residents of Kajiado and neighboring counties, the arrests bring a sense of relief after months of living in fear. Missionary camps, which have played a vital role in offering education, healthcare, and community support in remote regions, had become prime targets for the gang due to their relative isolation and perceived vulnerability.
Community leaders have welcomed the swift police action but are calling for increased patrols and stronger collaboration between local residents and law enforcement agencies to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Suspects Await Arraignment
The six suspects are expected to be arraigned in court once investigations are finalized. Police have assured the public that more arrests could follow as detectives pursue other possible accomplices linked to the gang’s operations.
