Fifteen suspected members of a criminal gang have been apprehended in Kisumu County following a strategic operation by detectives, who intercepted three vehicles believed to be transporting individuals armed with crude weapons.
On Sunday, August 16, 2026, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reported that the arrests stemmed from actionable intelligence indicating that a group suspected of being armed was traveling along the Kisumu–Kericho highway.
In a decisive response, detectives from the DCI Operations Support Unit (OSU), in collaboration with officers from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) in the Nyanza Region and DCI Kisumu Central, swiftly intercepted the vehicles.
The individuals of interest were located in a grey Toyota Noah and two white Toyota Hiace vans, which were operating under Nyakija Classic Shuttle along the Kisumu–Migori route.
During the search of the vehicles and suspects, authorities recovered numerous mobile phones, various machetes and pangas, knives, ropes, and a metal rod or club, along with other items believed to be intended for criminal activities.
One individual managed to evade capture during the operation, reportedly leading the group and executing a daring escape by jumping through a vehicle window.
The 15 apprehended individuals, along with the recovered evidence, are now in custody and undergoing processing while detectives continue their investigation.
Detectives remain actively engaged in tracking the escaped gang leader, emphasizing the commitment of the DCI to disrupt criminal networks before they can execute their plans.
This operation highlights the National Police Service’s determination to remove dangerous individuals and weapons from the streets, ensuring the safety of the public.
The DCI encourages community members to assist in the fight against crime by sharing information on suspected criminal activities through the Fichua Kwa DCI initiative. Reports can be made anonymously via the toll-free number 0800 722 203 or through WhatsApp at 0709 570 000.
