Detectives in Kenya have arrested a third suspect in connection with a Sh1 million daylight robbery that occurred in Vihiga county. The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Sammy Angwegwe, was arrested in the Esirulo area of Emuhaya following an intelligence-led operation. The robbery took place on October 19, when two women were ambushed by four-armed men along the Shamakhokho–Serem road.
The two women had withdrawn Sh1 million from a bank in Mbale, which was intended for the purchase of building materials. They placed the money in a shopping bag and began their journey home, boarding a matatu and alighting at Shamakhokho stage. The women then hired a motorcycle to take them to Chemobo Village in Nandi county. However, their journey took a turn near Erusui Girls School when a white Toyota Probox blocked their way.
Four men emerged from the vehicle, with two of them armed with pistols. The attackers confronted the women, grabbed the shopping bag containing the money, and another bag carrying personal valuables. The suspects then escaped towards Serem Town, leaving the victims shaken. Detectives immediately launched investigations, documenting the incident and pursuing leads to identify and apprehend those responsible.
The investigation gained momentum after a coordinated operation involving several security agencies led detectives to Angwegwe's hideout in Emuhaya. The latest arrest brings to three the number of suspects apprehended over the robbery. The three suspects remain in custody as detectives continue pursuing additional leads.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) stated that detectives are seeking to "unravel the full extent of the criminal enterprise" as they work to identify and arrest everyone linked to the incident. Police have urged members of the public to share information that could assist ongoing investigations and help bring those involved to justice.
The DCI and other security agencies are working together to crack down on the suspects. The Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB), Western Region, officers from Embali Police Station, and detectives from DCI in Hamisi were involved in the operation that led to Angwegwe's arrest.
The arrest of the third suspect is a significant breakthrough in the case, but detectives are yet to apprehend the remaining suspect. The incident has raised concerns about security in the region, and the police are working to prevent similar incidents in the future.
Key points
- The third suspect, Sammy Angwegwe, was arrested in an intelligence-led operation in Emuhaya.
- The robbery occurred on October 19, when two women were ambushed by four-armed men along the Shamakhokho–Serem road.
- Detectives continue to pursue additional leads to identify and arrest everyone linked to the incident.
