Mombasa police, in coordination with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) detectives in Malindi, Kilifi County, have arrested two robbery suspects linked to a criminal gang involved in a recent break-in that led to the theft of valuables of unknown value.
One of the suspects, identified as 34-year-old Victor Otieno, was apprehended following an intelligence-led operation along the Kilifi-Malindi Road on Wednesday. According to police reports, Otieno was traveling on a motorcycle, registration number KMGC 208C, with another suspect when they defied an order to stop at the Kilifi bridge, prompting officers to open fire.
“At about 1530hrs, a motorcycle, Reg. No. KMGC 208C, make Hawk, white in color, came speeding from Malindi towards Mombasa. The rider was challenged to stop as they approached Kilifi bridge, but they declined, prompting the officers to open fire,” a police report stated.
A shootout ensued, extending to Mnarani Centre, where the motorcycle lost control and veered off the road. Otieno was arrested, but his accomplice, who reportedly fired back at the officers, managed to escape.
The police pursued the fleeing suspect into Mtwapa but were unable to capture him. However, the operation continued through the night, leading to the arrest of another suspect, 74-year-old Msilim Salim Msilim.
During the operation, law enforcement officers recovered multiple stolen items, including:
- Two motorcycles: KMGB 004M (Boxer, red) and KMGE 209V (Honda)
- A stolen silver Toyota Corolla, Reg. No. KDP 966N
- Two gold chains, two gold earrings, nine rings, two bracelets, baby rings, a jewelry box, and other assorted items
The arrested suspects remain in police custody, awaiting arraignment, while a manhunt for the third suspect continues. Authorities have assured the public of heightened security operations to dismantle criminal gangs in the region and recover stolen property.
Residents have been urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the police as efforts to curb rising criminal activities intensify across Kilifi County.
