Detectives have arrested eight individuals suspected to be behind a wave of livestock thefts that have terrorised farmers across Kirinyaga, Embu, Nyeri, and Murang’a counties.
The suspects, who allegedly operated under the cover of night, are believed to have orchestrated a series of well-coordinated cattle thefts, creating fear and financial distress among livestock owners in the affected regions.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the group was caught off guard during a planned raid carried out in Kagio and Mwea towns in Kirinyaga County, following weeks of forensic and intelligence-led investigations.
“Investigations have revealed that the group includes not only the thieves themselves but also buyers, transporters, and butchers who play various roles in the livestock theft network,” read a statement from the DCI.
Among those arrested was a woman described by police as a well-known buyer of stolen livestock in Mwea.
All suspects are currently in custody and undergoing processing ahead of arraignment.
The National Police Service reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling organised criminal networks that threaten the livelihoods of farmers.
“Efforts continue to dismantle criminal networks and protect the livelihoods of hardworking farmers across the country,” the police stated.
This latest arrest follows a separate operation two weeks ago, in which security forces recovered 77 stolen cattle belonging to two residents of Tigania East in Meru County.
The livestock had been reported stolen at Kangeta Police Station, prompting a swift multi-agency response.
The suspects were intercepted near Ngato Dam after engaging in a gunfight with officers. No animals were lost during the recovery.
The security operation included personnel from the Kangeta Police Station, General Service Unit (GSU), Anti-Stock Theft Unit (ASTU), Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU), and National Police Reservists.
Police said the arrests mark a significant step toward
curbing livestock theft, a persistent menace that has long undermined rural
economies and food security.
