Eight suspected livestock thieves arrested after police raid in Kirinyaga County

The eight suspects namely 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 well-known buyer of stolen livestock based in Mwea, were arrested in Kagio and Mwea towns of Kirinyaga County during a planned raid where they were about to strike once more.

They were caught off-guard and unaware that law enforcement personnel had been trailing them.

Further investigations into the group revealed that not only were there thieves part of the scheme, but there were buyers, butchers and transporters each with a specific part to play in the livestock theft network.

DCI says the network operated in Embu, Kirinyaga, Nyeri and Murang’a and instilled fear amongst local farmers.

The suspects are now in police custody pending processing and arraignment.

“The National Police Service reaffirms its commitment to rooting out organized crime and ensuring that such individuals are held accountable. Efforts continue to dismantle criminal networks and protect the livelihoods of hardworking farmers across the country,” said DCI in a statement on Sunday.