The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested three suspects linked to the armed robbery at Chaiiwali Restaurant along General Mathenge Road in Westlands, marking a significant breakthrough in the ongoing investigation.
According to the DCI, the arrests followed an intelligence-led operation conducted by detectives from DCI Headquarters at an apartment in Githurai Mwiki, where the suspects had allegedly gone into hiding.
In a statement posted on X, formerly Twitter, the agency confirmed the arrests, noting that the investigation was steadily gathering momentum.
“Detectives have arrested three suspects linked to the daring armed robbery at Chaiiwali Restaurant along General Mathenge Road, Westlands, as the investigation into the violent gang continues to gather momentum,” the statement read in part.
Meanwhile, upon sensing the detectives’ presence, the trio attempted a dramatic escape by climbing down from the sixth floor through the rear of the building.
However, their escape was short-lived after members of the public raised the alarm, prompting detectives to swiftly apprehend them.
Robbery Suspects Identified
The detectives identified the suspects as Edison Mukama alias Musa Abdul, a 22-year-old Rwandan national, Adens Kikanga, 25, and John Njuguna Githinji, 25.
However, a female accomplice managed to escape during the operation and remains at large.
Subsequent search of their premises in Githurai Kimbo within Manguo area led to the recovery of two firearms: a Mini Beretta pistol loaded with three rounds of 9mm ammunition and a Retay Falcon pistol loaded with five rounds of 9mm ammunition.
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Suspects Linked to CCTV-Captured Robbery
According to the DCI, preliminary investigations have linked the suspects to the robbery captured on CCTV on July 4, 2026.
In the footage shared on social media, armed criminals stormed Chaiiwali Restaurant, terrorised customers, stole mobile phones and other valuables before firing shots into the air as they escaped on motorcycles.
Meanwhile, the recovered firearms will undergo forensic examination at the National Police Service Forensic Laboratory to establish whether they were used in the Chaiiwali robbery or any other violent crimes.
Currently, the suspects remain in custody as detectives pursue the remaining members of the gang and intensify investigations aimed at dismantling the criminal network.
Earlier Operation Left One Suspect Dead
The latest arrests come days after detectives fatally shot a suspect, identified as Vincent Ochieng, during an operation at his girlfriend’s house in Joska, Machakos County.
According to the DCI, detectives from its Headquarters and Matungulu offices tracked Ochieng to the residence following intelligence reports.
Investigators said the suspect allegedly opened fire on officers after they identified themselves and ordered him to surrender, prompting detectives to return fire in self-defence.
