Detectives Raid Suspected Gang Hideout in Eldoret, Recover Military Gear
Authorities are now examining whether the uniforms were genuine military-issued equipment or counterfeit items intended to deceive victims during criminal operations.
Items recovered by detectives in Huruma, Eldoret. Photo: Courtesy.
By Robert Mutasi
Detectives investigating a suspected criminal gang operating in parts of the North Rift have recovered military-style clothing and other items believed to have been used in violent robberies, less than a day after four suspected gang members were fatally shot during a police operation in Uasin Gishu County.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said officers from DCI Soy raided a house in the Sungura area of Huruma Estate, Eldoret, following intelligence gathered after Sunday’s operation along the Eldoret-Kiplombe-Soy Road.
According to investigators, preliminary findings suggest the house served as an operational base for the gang, which police believe has been involved in a series of violent crimes across the Rift Valley region.
During the search, detectives recovered five Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) jungle jackets, a heavy wedge hammer, a crowbar, two mobile phones and other items believed to be linked to the gang’s activities.
Police said the recovery of the military attire strengthens ongoing investigations into allegations that members of the group disguised themselves as police officers and military personnel while carrying out robberies.
Authorities are now examining whether the uniforms were genuine military-issued equipment or counterfeit items intended to deceive victims during criminal operations.
Crime Scene Investigation officers documented the scene and collected the recovered exhibits for forensic examination.
Investigators said the evidence will undergo forensic analysis to establish possible links between the suspects and previous robbery incidents reported in the region.
The latest raid comes barely 24 hours after detectives shot and killed four suspected gang members during an operation along the Eldoret-Kiplombe-Soy Road. Police have not publicly identified the deceased, and no independent account of the incident has been released.
The DCI said investigations are continuing as officers pursue other suspected members of the network believed to have escaped the earlier operation.
Detectives are seeking to establish the gang’s structure, identify its remaining members and determine whether it operated beyond Uasin Gishu County.
Police believe the criminal network may have used deception, including wearing security uniforms, to gain the confidence of victims before carrying out attacks.
Authorities have not disclosed whether any arrests have been made following the raid or whether the recovered mobile phones have yielded additional leads.
The DCI appealed to members of the public to continue cooperating with investigators by reporting suspicious activities and sharing information that could assist ongoing investigations.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations appreciates the continued support from members of the public. Their vigilance and timely information remain critical in combating organized crime and enhancing public safety,” the agency said in a statement.
The recovery is expected to form a key part of the investigation as detectives work to dismantle what they believe is an organized criminal syndicate operating within the Rift Valley region.
Police have urged residents to remain vigilant while investigations continue, assuring the public that security agencies are committed to pursuing those responsible for violent crime and bringing them before the courts.
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