Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) servicemen and civilians in an intelligence-led operation targeting a criminal syndicate in Kitengela on March 26.
According to the DCI, the arrested suspects had planned to rob a senior military officer. However, the detectives had received information on the robbery and intervened.
The suspects had been kept under surveillance and their movements monitored by the DCI following the intelligence received on the robbery on March 23.
“On Monday, March 23, 2026, detectives received credible intelligence about an imminent robbery and placed the suspects under close surveillance, monitoring their movements and preparations ahead of the planned attack,” read the DCI statement.
The DCI said the suspects were using a Toyota Harrier during the operation.
According to the DCI, a female suspect had alighted from the car and proceeded to the main gate of the targeted officer, trying to seek access when the detectives who had already secured the area made the arrest.
Backup teams in the area were able to intercept the Toyota Harrier and a Toyota Ractis with the registration parked nearby, with a driver on standby.
KDF Sergeant Among Other Suspects Arrested in the Planned Kitengela Robbery
Among the six suspects arrested, some were members of the Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) and others were civilian accomplices.
A KDF sergeant stationed at Kahawa Garrison, a KDF service member currently on interdiction, and a civilian mechanic attached to the KDF at Kahawa Barracks were among the suspects who were arrested.
The six remain in custody, undergoing processing and interrogation as the DCI continues to investigate on the l scope of the syndicate’s activities and possible links to other criminal incidents.
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Items Recovered During the Arrest
During a search of the scene, the DCI recovered items believed to have been intended for use in the robbery.
Among the items recovered were KDF jungle uniforms, military boots, a crowbar, a claw hammer, a knife, pliers, and multiple mobile phones.
The DCI has reaffirmed its commitment to dismantling organized crime networks and ensuring that individuals involved are brought to justice, regardless of the status.
Members of the public have been urged to report anonymously to the DCI without fear by calling the toll-free number 0800 722 203 or via WhatsApp at 0709 570 000.
Also Read: DCI Clears Air on Arrest of 7 Suspects Over KSh60 Million Scam at Harambee House
Cases Involving KDF Officials
The KDF has addressed claims that some of its officers stole 1,024 kilograms of methamphetamine worth KSh 8.2 billion, seized at the Coast by the Kenya Navy on October 25, 2025.
According to a statement on December 2, 2025, some KDF personnel involved in the mission stole and concealed a portion of the drugs for personal gain.
In a recent case on January 7, 2026, eight KDF soldiers were arraigned at the Mombasa Law Courts over their alleged involvement in trafficking methamphetamine valued at over Ksh192 million.
A statement from the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) stated that the accused, who all denied the charges, faced multiple counts, including trafficking, conspiracy to traffic, and storing narcotic drugs in residential premises.
