Three Suspected Masterminds Behind Nairobi-Mombasa Highway Robberies Arrested
Through detailed forensic work and surveillance, they tracked two suspects — Karanja and Jumamosi — to a hideout in Taveta.
One of three individuals arrested in Voi for masterminding a series of highway robberies along the Nairobi-Mombasa route, including a daring robbery on April 9, 2025. Photo/DCI.
By Robert Assad
In a major breakthrough in the fight against highway crime, detectives in Voi have arrested three individuals believed to be the masterminds behind a series of daring robberies along the busy Nairobi-Mombasa highway.
The suspects — David Karanja, Juma Jumamosi, and Josephine Nthamba Mutie — were linked to a shocking robbery that occurred on April 9, 2025, involving an Isuzu FRR truck ferrying gypsum from Nairobi to Mombasa.
According to police reports, as the truck approached the Ikanga area, a suspect suddenly jumped out from nearby bushes and attempted to cross the road, forcing the driver to swerve sharply.
The truck veered off the road and stalled, creating a perfect opportunity for the criminals to strike.
Moments later, about five individuals emerged from the thicket. One was armed with a pistol. They stormed the truck, overpowered the driver and his co-driver, handcuffed them, and shoved them behind the seats.
One of the suspects then drove off in the truck, while the terrified victims were dumped approximately 300 meters away.
Arrests and Recovery
Following the robbery, detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) swung into action. Through detailed forensic work and surveillance, they tracked two suspects — Karanja and Jumamosi — to a hideout in Taveta.
During the arrest, Jumamosi led detectives to his rented house in Bahati, Taveta sub-county. There, police recovered vital evidence, including a number plate (KDC 020G) linked to the stolen truck, a T-shaped screwdriver, and two spanners — all believed to have been used in the crime.
The two suspects were arraigned before the Chief Magistrate’s Court in Voi on May 19, 2025, where the court granted detectives 14 days to hold them for further investigation.
Just weeks later, on June 2, detectives apprehended the third suspect, Josephine Nthamba, in Makindu. She too was presented before the same court and a similar 14-day custodial order was granted.
Ongoing Investigations
Detectives are now pursuing additional suspects and working to recover the stolen lorry, which remains missing. Authorities have assured the public that investigations are ongoing and that no effort will be spared in bringing all culprits to justice.
The DCI has reiterated its firm commitment to ending highway robberies and enhancing safety along major transport corridors in Kenya. Travellers are also urged to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
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