One of the eight prisoners who escaped from Wundanyi Main Prison in Taita Taveta County in late January has been recaptured, marking a significant breakthrough in the ongoing search. Patrick Karisa, who was part of the group that fled the facility by cutting through the roof of their cell on the night of January 25, 2025, was arrested on Monday in Mombasa.
The escape, which shocked the local community, triggered a swift and extensive manhunt across the region, with authorities working tirelessly to track down the fugitives. Karisa’s arrest was the result of coordinated efforts between the police and other law enforcement agencies, who had been combing through various areas in search of the escapees.
After his apprehension in Mombasa, Karisa was immediately transferred to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters in Wundanyi for processing. The authorities are now in the process of transferring him to Manyani Maximum Security Prison in Voi, where he will continue serving his sentence.
Karisa’s recapture brings the total number of escapees caught to four, with three other prisoners being arrested earlier in the Godoma area of Mwatate Subcounty. These three escapees were also quickly taken back to Manyani Maximum Security Prison, where they are being held in high-security custody. However, four more individuals remain on the run, and the search continues for their whereabouts.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any information that could assist in the arrest of the remaining fugitives. Local police and the DCI have called for continued cooperation from the community, stressing the importance of sharing any relevant details that may lead to the capture of the remaining escapees. The manhunt has intensified, with law enforcement officers increasing their presence in known hideouts and seeking any possible leads.
As of now, the escapees have not been located, and the authorities are using all available resources, including intelligence and technology, to track them down. The escape has raised concerns about security at the Wundanyi Main Prison, leading to heightened scrutiny of prison infrastructure and procedures. The public is urged to stay alert and cooperate with law enforcement to ensure the remaining fugitives are brought back into custody swiftly.
