A Night of Suspense in Kisumu
It was just past midnight in Kondele, Kisumu, when detectives moved in silently under the cover of darkness.
For weeks, they had tracked a gang suspected of stealing cars from across western Kenya — and that night, their patience finally paid off.
By dawn, two suspects were in handcuffs and two stolen cars had been towed to Kisumu Central Police Station.
The Trail of the Missing Cars
According to sources within the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the operation began after several motorists in Homa Bay and Kisii reported missing vehicles — mostly Toyota Probox and Axio models commonly used by taxi operators.
The stolen cars would disappear without a trace, only to reappear days later with new number plates or repainted bodies.
Police believe the suspects were part of a well-coordinated syndicate that specialized in stealing vehicles, altering chassis numbers, and reselling them to unsuspecting buyers within Kisumu County.
The Arrest and Recovery
Acting on intelligence, officers raided a compound in Kondele estate, where two men were allegedly preparing one of the stolen vehicles for sale.
The suspects were cornered after attempting to escape, but quick action by detectives ensured they were subdued.
Inside the compound, police recovered:
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A white Toyota Probox with fake plates.
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A silver Toyota Axio reported stolen two weeks earlier.
Both vehicles were later identified through NTSA records and are now secured at Kisumu Central Police Station.
Police Speak Out
Speaking after the operation, Kisumu County Police Commander praised the DCI team for their swift coordination.
“This is a significant breakthrough in curbing vehicle theft across western Kenya.
We’re pursuing other suspects believed to be part of the same network,”
— Kisumu County Police Commander said.
The officer also urged motorists to be cautious when purchasing used vehicles and to always confirm ownership details through NTSA and EACC verification systems.
A Community on Edge
Residents of Kisumu expressed mixed emotions — relief that arrests were made, but fear that more criminals could still be out there.
“We’ve lost several cars in this town. It’s becoming a nightmare for taxi drivers,”
said one boda-boda operator who witnessed the police operation.
Car thefts in Kisumu and neighboring counties have risen sharply in recent months, especially near public parking zones and nightclubs.
The Bigger Picture
Police believe the suspects were not acting alone and are working to dismantle the entire syndicate.
Forensic experts are examining the recovered vehicles to trace registration tampering and identify possible buyers of other stolen units.
Authorities have also warned mechanics and second-hand car dealers to avoid purchasing unverified vehicles, as they risk prosecution for handling stolen property.
Looking Ahead
The two suspects remain in custody as investigations continue.
They are expected to be arraigned in court in the coming days to face charges of stealing motor vehicles, forgery, and handling stolen property.
As Kisumu wakes to another day, one thing is clear — Kenya’s war against car theft is far from over.
But for now, police have scored a win — and two stolen cars will soon find their way back to their rightful owners.
