Authorities in Kisumu County have apprehended 15 individuals suspected to be gang members following a targeted operation along the Kisumu-Kericho highway. The crackdown led to the recovery of various crude weapons believed to be intended for criminal activities.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) disclosed that intelligence reports indicated a group traveling armed with machetes, pangas, knives, and other weapons. Acting on this information, detectives from the DCI Operations Support Unit (OSU), in collaboration with the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) Nyanza Region and DCI Kisumu Central, intercepted three vehicles suspected to be carrying these individuals.
- The vehicles intercepted included a grey Toyota Noah (KCR 790A) and two white Toyota Hiace vans (KDM 377M and KDE 819U), both operating under Nyakija Classic Shuttle along the Kisumu-Migori route.
- Searches of the vehicles and suspects yielded mobile phones, machetes, pangas, knives, ropes, a metal rod, and other items linked to criminal intent.
During the operation, one suspect identified as Oliver Jaoko, also known as Oliveti and believed to be the gang leader, managed to escape by jumping through a vehicle window. The arrested suspects are currently in custody and undergoing processing ahead of arraignment as investigations continue.
The DCI emphasized that this operation reflects the National Police Service’s commitment to disrupting criminal networks, removing dangerous individuals and weapons from the streets, and protecting the public. The public is encouraged to assist ongoing efforts by providing information through the DCI’s #FichuaKwaDCI initiative via toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp at 0709 570 000.
