Detectives based at the Nairobi Regional Headquarters, supported by their Ruai counterparts, have arrested Hassan Maina Murigi, a well-known receiver of stolen hardware goods.
The arrest of Murigi is a significant breakthrough in the ongoing efforts to dismantle organized crime networks operating in the city.
This arrest comes after police detained John Nderitu Mugo in Kangemi, Dagoretti, who had allegedly been hired by Derrick Namukowa to transport a group of loaders using his matatu, Reg. No. KCB 716F, to a location in Ruai.
From there, the stolen goods were transferred onto an Isuzu lorry, Reg. No. KCQ 028D, driven by James Wachira Kinyua.
According to law enforcement sources, the group of criminals launched a coordinated heist in the early hours of Thursday, July 27, 2024.
They targeted the Patnet Steel Makers’ godowns, gaining entry and making off with a large haul of assorted hardware goods. The robbery turned violent, with one employee fatally wounded during the incident.
After the goods were loaded onto the lorry, the criminals transported them to Kariobangi Light Industries, where they were offloaded at the premises of Hassan Maina Murigi.
Upon delivery, the gang dispersed after receiving payment for their criminal activities. Murigi then began selling the stolen goods, unaware that investigators were tracking his every move.
Detectives swiftly moved in on Murigi, recovering a significant quantity of iron sheets and barbed wire. These items were later confirmed to match the batch numbers of those stolen from Patnet Steel Makers’ godowns.
One of the senior detectives involved in the operation asserted that this arrest serves as a clear warning to economic saboteurs.
“Our efforts are relentless, and we will not stop until every member of this criminal network is brought to justice,” the detective stated.
The suspects are set to be arraigned in court as investigations continue. The Nairobi Regional Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities, emphasizing their commitment to maintaining the city’s safety and security.
