Detectives have dismantled a crime syndicate suspected of being a livestock theft ring after arresting eight individuals believed to be behind a string of cattle raids in Kirinyaga, Embu, Nyeri, and Murang’a counties.
The suspects, who had allegedly terrorized farmers under the cover of night, were cornered in coordinated raids staged in Kagio and Mwea towns, Kirinyaga County. Authorities say the group operated as a well-oiled network involving thieves, transporters, buyers, and butchers who fueled the illegal trade.
Those nabbed include Patrick Wanjohi Njoki, Peter Muriithi Ngari, Lukes Ochieng Olao, Simon Karagu Murigi, Anthony Mutugi, Daniel Kinyua Wangari, Samuel Gitonga Miano, and Cecilia Wanja Njogu, a notorious buyer of stolen animals in Mwea.
Police confirmed the suspects are in custody and will face charges once investigations are complete. The National Police Service pledged to intensify operations to dismantle organized crime rings and safeguard farmers’ livelihoods from such predatory networks.
