Police Arrest 16 Nairobi Muggers, Recover Toy Gun, 37 Knives

The raid was carried out after police received a tip-off from members of the public...

Police Arrest 16 Nairobi Muggers, Recover Toy Gun, 37 Knives
16 suspects arrested in Transami area, Embakasi, Nairobi on November 25, 2022. /NPS

Police officers on Friday, November 25 carried out a raid in Embakasi, Nairobi and flushed out 16 suspected muggers from their hideout.

A report by the National Police Service (NPS) on Saturday, November 26 indicated that the muggers were arrested while hiding within the Transami area of the densely populated residential area.

The raid was carried out after police received a tip-off from members of the public regarding the suspects. Among the items recovered during the operation included 37 knives and a toy pistol.

Pipeline estate in Embakasi. /STANDARD DIGITAL

"National Police Service officers in various parts of the country continue to work tirelessly to ensure safety and security for all. Police from Villa Police Station in Embakasi, Nairobi yesterday arrested 16 suspected muggers from their hideout within the Transami area.

"The officers searched the hideout and found one toy pistol, 37 knives, three pangas and two hammers," NPS stated in part.

Other items recovered during the operation included 158 rolls of bhang, two litres of chang'aa and 10 Kenya Power meter boxes, suspected to have been stolen.

"We appreciate the unwavering support and partnership with National Government Administration Officers (NGAO) and members of the public who immensely contributed to the success of this operation," added NPS.

On Tuesday, November 22, six suspected muggers aged between 20 and 26 years were apprehended by officers on patrol who ambushed them at their hideout in Mathare, Nairobi as part of its ongoing crackdown on criminals causing nightmares to the city residents.

The six were found in possession of four knives, one of which is a special one resembling that one used by military officers in combat.

"The 6, who were flushed from their hideout in Mathare Area 1 were found in possession of 4 knives, one stone and 8 rolls of bhang. The 6 have since been processed and will be arraigned in court," NPS stated.

Inspector General of Police, Japhet Koome had warned crime syndicates in Nairobi and across the country to either stop conducting criminal activities or suffer the consequences.

Despite President William Ruto deploying officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) and the Rapid Deployment Unit (RDU) to the city, numerous reports continue to surface of theft, some of which have seen the culprits take bolder tactics.

GSU officers on patrol in Nairobi CBD. /DAILY NATION