Police in Athi River have launched a manhunt for a gang suspected of targeting travellers facing difficulties while travelling upcountry for the Christmas holiday.
This follows the armed robbery of two Kenyans, a man and a woman, who were stripped of Ksh409,000 and other valuables after the gang posed as Good Samaritans willing to help them with their travel plans.
According to a report by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the two were waiting for a Mombasa-bound bus in Mlolongo when the gang of three pulled up in a private car and offered them a ride.
However, the kind gesture quickly turned into a nightmare, as the three individuals turned out to be robbers who held them hostage in Athi River.
An undated image of police officers in a Landcruiser during an operation
File
They threatened the two victims with daggers and bound and blindfolded them before frisking them for valuables.
As a result of the robbery, Ksh340,000 was withdrawn from the man’s banking apps and an additional Ksh20,000 from his mobile money account. His phone and power bank worth Ksh75,000 were also stolen.
Ksh49,000 was withdrawn from the woman’s mobile money account, and several other valuables were also taken.
Fortunately, no physical injuries were inflicted on either of the two.
They were dumped at Ngarariga in Limuru, and members of the public assisted them to the Ngarariga Police Station, where the incident was reported.
The case is currently in the hands of the DCI in Athi River, who have launched an investigation to apprehend the gang before more holiday travellers fall victim to their lure.
Even as police crackdowns and patrols heighten, the DCI has warned Kenyans to be more vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
They have also sent a warning to those taking advantage of the season to reign terror on Kenyans.
Police officers mount a roadblock along Parliament Road on Thursday, November 21, 2024.
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Kenyans.co.ke