Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Athiriver are investigating a robbery in which two passengers en route to Mombasa were robbed of Sh409,000 and other valuables after accepting a lift from a seemingly well-meaning driver. The incident, which occurred on the evening of Saturday, December 22, 2024, highlights the dangers of trusting strangers during busy travel periods, especially as the Christmas season is marked by increased travel and heightened criminal activities.
According to the DCI, the two victims, a man from Kiambu and a woman residing in Mombasa, were waiting for a Mombasa-bound bus at Mlolongo, a common stop for travelers on the Nairobi-Mombasa highway. As they waited, they were approached by a man driving a private car, who offered them a lift to their destination, citing transport challenges across the country due to the festive season rush. Trusting the stranger’s offer, the victims, both in need of transport, accepted the lift, unaware of the danger that lay ahead.
The DCI’s report states that the driver, who appeared to be alone, was later joined by three other passengers. As the vehicle progressed towards Athiriver, a well-known town along the Mombasa road, the occupants turned aggressive. Reaching the Simba Cement area of Athiriver, the passengers, who were now revealed to be robbers, brandished daggers, held the victims hostage, and blindfolded them. The criminals restrained the pair with ropes before proceeding to frisk them for valuables.
The male victim, whose identity has not been disclosed, was forced to hand over access to his mobile banking apps. From his accounts, the robbers withdrew Sh340,000. In addition, the criminals accessed his M-Pesa account, stealing an additional Sh20,000. They also made off with his Samsung Galaxy phone and a power bank, together valued at Sh75,000. Meanwhile, the female victim, who had been traveling to Mombasa, was robbed of Sh9,000 from her M-Pesa account and other personal items, although no significant injuries were inflicted on her.
After carrying out the robbery, the gang abandoned the victims in the Ngarariga area of Limuru, which is some distance from the crime scene. The victims were left stranded but were fortunate to be rescued by good Samaritans, who took them to the nearby Ngarariga police station. The DCI confirmed that the victims were in good health despite the traumatic experience.
This latest crime highlights the risks travelers face, particularly during the holiday season, when many people are eager to get home for Christmas celebrations. The DCI has issued a statement urging the public to be vigilant and cautious, especially when accepting offers from strangers. The DCI further emphasized the importance of reporting any suspicious activity to the authorities, particularly as criminal gangs look to exploit the festive season for illicit gains.
“We urge the public to remain vigilant during this time and to report any suspicious persons or activities in their neighborhoods. Police are intensifying patrols, and we will continue to target criminal elements taking advantage of the season to commit crimes,” the DCI said in a statement.
As Christmas approaches, Kenyans are advised to take extra care when traveling, especially when accepting lifts or rides from unfamiliar individuals. While many drivers may have good intentions, this case serves as a grim reminder that not everyone is trustworthy. Authorities have promised to step up their efforts in cracking down on criminal gangs and ensuring that the public enjoys a safe and happy holiday season. The investigation into the robbery is ongoing, and the DCI has called on the public to assist in identifying the criminals involved in this daring heist.
