Four arrested in Machakos over robberies targeting hardware shops

Police in Machakos County have arrested four suspects linked to a string of robberies targeting hardware shops in Machakos and Joska neighbourhoods.

Wycliffe Matheka Kithuku, also known as Uthex, Cynthia Mbithe Musyoka and Jackson Wambua Mutinda were arrested during a police sting operation on Thursday.

Detectives recovered several items, including a motorcycle, registration number KMGP 114M, which the suspects reportedly used as their getaway vehicle.

“Also seized were tools of the trade, a bolt cutter and a long metal rod allegedly wielded to intimidate watchmen during their criminal escapades,” said the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in a statement.

The officers also apprehended another suspect, Brian Wambua Manza, in Machakos town

“Under pressure, he led detectives to a scrap metal dealer, revealing a hidden stash of stolen goods from a Joska hardware store. Among the haul were 200 kilograms of nails, 25 kilograms of hoop iron, and a laptop,” said the DCI.

According to the DCI, Kithuku, Mutinda, and Manza are all former convicts who were recently released from Machakos GK Prison.

The four suspects remain in custody awaiting arraignment, while the recovered items have been stored as evidence.