Suspects arraigned over Ruaraka, Mathare robberies after Ruto’s rally

Suspects arraigned over Ruaraka, Mathare robberies after Ruto’s rally

Following the president’s visit to Ruaraka, gangs looted shops, attacked traders, and later moved to Thika Superhighway, where they targeted motorists and passengers in vehicles stuck in traffic.

Several suspects arrested over a spate of robberies in Ruaraka and Mathare shortly after President William Ruto’s rally have been arraigned.

The suspects include Jared Nyanza, Darlin Lande, Daniel Okombe, Mike Robert, Elvis Otieno, Reagan Omondi and Mathenge Gachiri.

They were among a group of ten who robbed members of the public of their phones and other valuables in Mathare Area 4.

"John Junior Oginga, who was armed with a knife when he attacked and robbed an unsuspecting individual of an Oppo A77S mobile phone valued at Sh28,000, was also arrested," police said.

Police recovered from their possession seven brand-new shirts, believed to be stolen property.

"Meanwhile, Police Officers have intensified their crackdown to bring to justice additional suspects involved in these criminal acts."

Speaking in Mvita, Mombasa, after opening Mbaraki Police Station, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja on Wednesday stated that police are actively searching for more suspects involved in the attacks.

He assured the public that the culprits would be held accountable.

“Nobody has permission to disturb another person. Kenya is a free country, and no one has the right to rob others of their belongings. We have arrested some suspects, and they have been taken to court as we speak,” Kanja said.

Following the president’s visit to Ruaraka, gangs looted shops, attacked traders, and later moved to Thika Superhighway, where they targeted motorists and passengers in vehicles stuck in traffic.

Those who failed to open their doors had their side mirrors and valuables stolen, while others had their cars vandalised.

Similar incidents were reported on Monday when President Ruto visited Kamukunji, raising concerns over rising insecurity.

Many residents in Ruaraka and Mathare now live in fear, attributing the rise in crime to high unemployment among the youth.

Police have intensified patrols in the affected areas as investigations continue.

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