NAIROBI – 28 suspects are in police custody following security work from multiple agencies that discovered a car theft syndicate.
22 stolen vehicles were recovered by the DCI Crime Research and Intelligence Agency and Operational Action Team during operations targeting 10 counties flagged as motor vehicle theft hotspots.
Counties include Nieri, Kirinyaga, Kiambu, Machakos, Kajado, Nairobi, Kisumu, Kakamega, Busia and Bungoma
Preliminary investigations suggest that the suspect was involved in a variety of forms of car theft, including car employment fraud, car park theft, violent robbery and carjacking.
“This surprising trend will result in significant losses for vehicle owners and will negatively affect the economy through increased insurance claims and outstanding loans held by financial institutions,” DCI said.
DCI revealed that some of the recovered vehicles were already sold to unsuspecting buyers in the country, while others were smuggled across the border to Uganda and Tanzania.
“To control theft of vehicles and enhance the security of individuals and vehicles, DCI urges Kenyans to adopt the following measures: installing anti-theft devices, parking in safe places, confirming that clients are hired, being vigilant on the roads, and checking vehicle documents,” the DCI statement read.
By Phineas Munen
