DCI nab robbers in possession of KES 520,000 in highway operation

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has reported the arrest of two men suspected to be armed robbers in Moyale, Marsabit County.

According to the DCI the suspects were found in possession of KES 520,000 in cash during a highway operation on Sunday.

The suspects, who attempted to flee, were intercepted and arrested while in possession of a pistol. According to DCI, the seized money comprised KES 83,000 and an equivalent of KES 436,000 in Ethiopian Birr, emphasizing a cross-border aspect to the crime.

Subsequently, both suspects and the motorcycle they were utilizing were detained at Moyale Police Station awaiting transfer to the TOCU (International Crime Unit) offices in Nairobi.

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Additionally, the same operation thwarted another robbery at the Hilo mining site in Moyale, resulting in the arrest of two more suspects.

The apprehended individuals were found in possession of a rifle loaded with six live rounds, which was seized by the officer commanding Dabel station. They were cornered at a shop within Hilo Gold mine following a distress call from the shopkeeper.

The suspects are slated to appear in court on Monday to face multiple charges. Those accused of robbery with violence may face severe penalties, including a death sentence or imprisonment exceeding 14 years, according to Kenyan law.

However, the burden of proof rests on petitioners to establish theft and the actual or threatened use of violence beyond reasonable doubt.

The escalation in armed robbery incidents correlates with the persistent challenges posed by the escalating cost of living in the region.