The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued a stark warning to taxi operators, urging them to remain vigilant amidst a concerning uptick in violent robberies targeting drivers across the country.
In a recent post on their official Facebook page, the DCI highlighted a disturbing trend where criminal syndicates are utilizing taxi services under the guise of legitimate customers, only to unleash violence and theft along the journey.
According to the DCI, these well-organized gangs meticulously select vulnerable targets and negotiate trip details with unsuspecting drivers. Once underway, they coordinate with accomplices who join the journey at various points, often in secluded areas, before turning on the driver.
“We have noticed a worrying pattern where criminals exploit taxi services for their nefarious activities,” stated the DCI. “These incidents not only pose a significant threat to the safety of drivers but also undermine public trust in our transportation system.”
In a recent case reported at Kikopey Police Post in Gilgil, Nakuru County, a 42-year-old taxi operator from Nairobi was lured into a trap while transporting a passenger to Nakuru. The customer, accompanied by two alleged friends, turned on the driver midway through the journey, robbing him of his vehicle and leaving him stranded in a remote area.
Following swift investigative work, detectives managed to apprehend two suspects, Francis Ojerepata Omoindi and Jack Odhiambo Otieno, in Bungoma County. The authorities recovered the stolen vehicle along with multiple stolen identities and communication devices from the suspects.
“While we have made significant progress in apprehending those responsible, we urge taxi operators to exercise caution and report any suspicious activity to the authorities,” DCI emphasized.
The case against the arrested individuals is ongoing at the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Naivasha, with efforts to identify and apprehend additional suspects underway.
As the DCI continues to combat crime across the nation, they reaffirm their commitment to safeguarding citizens and maintaining the integrity of law enforcement efforts. Taxi operators are reminded to remain vigilant and prioritize their safety while serving the public.
