Detectives in Kirinyaga East have arrested a key suspect in connection with the kidnapping of Gatuto Primary School headteacher Joshua Kerai.
The teacher was abducted on November 4, 2025, in Kagumo, Kirinyaga county, by three men who forced him into a maroon Toyota Ractis.
According to police reports, the suspects drove Kerai around for hours before abandoning him at Sahara petrol station in Kutus town.
The distressed teacher was later rescued by a good samaritan and rushed to Kerugoya Catholic Hospital for treatment.
After the incident, officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) launched a manhunt.
Using forensic and intelligence leads, they tracked down the prime suspect to his hideout in Kutus, where he was arrested after days of pursuit.
Detectives stated that the suspect is a repeat offender linked to several serious crimes in the region, including motor vehicle and livestock theft, robberies, and break-ins.
He is currently in custody, as detectives intensify efforts to arrest his two accomplices, who remain at large.
The DCI confirmed the developments and assured the public of ongoing efforts to dismantle such criminal networks.
The agency also appealed to the public to report any suspicious individuals or activities that could help in ongoing investigations.
Anyone with information is urged to contact the DCI through their toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp at 0709 570 000“#FichuaKwaDCI. Usiogope!” the message concludes.
The incident has sparked public concern about the safety of teachers and rising insecurity in local communities, prompting calls for improved protection and faster response to threats.
On September 6, 2025, detectives in Murang’a arrested four individuals believed to be linked to a kidnapping syndicate operating in Kangema Subcounty.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the arrests followed a well-coordinated operation in Kiriaini.
According to the security agency, the suspects were apprehended as they allegedly plotted another abduction.
"Their arrest follows an earlier incident in which they kidnapped a woman and coerced her into withdrawing Sh585,000 from her bank account to buy her freedom," the agency said in a statement.
Investigators said intelligence gathered over recent weeks pointed to an organised network targeting victims in the area.
During the raid, detectives also impounded a vehicle suspected to have been used in multiple abductions.
Officers believe the vehicle played a central role in the group’s operations, providing mobility during both the planning and execution of the crimes.
"A getaway vehicle, Toyota Corolla, believed to have been used in multiple criminal acts, was impounded at the scene and is now being detained as an exhibit," the statement stated.
The DCI confirmed that the four suspects are currently in custody as processing continues, pending arraignment.
