A major breakthrough has been recorded in the fight against vehicle theft after detectives in Makindu arrested two men believed to be behind a string of highway robberies.The suspects, Joseph Katee Nzainga and Nelson Musyoki Mbidyo, were cornered during an operation along the busy Mombasa–Nairobi highway.
Police say the two have been on their radar for months following a surge in carjackings involving vehicles fitted with Kenya Dealer (KD) plates and those destined for Uganda.
Their most recent case dates back to August 28, 2025, when a black Toyota Harrier was reported stolen in Makindu.
The sting operation yielded crucial evidence. Detectives recovered a set of registration plates (KDR 885Z), five mobile phones, three national ID cards belonging to different individuals, and wheel spanner believed to have been used during the heists.
These discoveries point to a well-coordinated network targeting unsuspecting motorists traveling along the highway.
Authorities described the arrests as a timely step in dismantling criminal gangs exploiting loopholes to traffic stolen cars.Investigations are ongoing to determine whether the suspects are linked to larger regional cartels notorious for smuggling vehicles across borders.
Currently being held at Makindu Police Station, the two are undergoing formal processing ahead of their appearance in court.
Detectives believe more arrests could follow as leads are pursued.
The National Police Service has appealed to the public for cooperation, urging citizens to remain alert and report suspicious activities.
Officials emphasized that safeguarding highways requires vigilance from both motorists and law enforcement officers working hand in hand to deter crime.
This arrest, police say, signals progress in reclaiming safety along one of Kenya’s busiest road networks.
By Kenyans