DCI Gate
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has cautioned taxi drivers on an ongoing criminal syndicate targeting them.
In a statement on Thursday, the DCI said criminals are hiring taxi services for either long distances or trips with several pickup points while guised as cash-rich customers, only to turn violent robbers along the way.
“A member of a well-organized criminal ring identifies a target whom they deem vulnerable to a good deal of money out of the ordered trip, and whose car suits their need.
“The “customer” negotiates with the taxi driver on the charges for the trip, and while on the way communicates with one or more accomplices who will be conveniently waiting along the route. With promises of an extra inconvenience fee for the stop, the driver goes ahead to let onboard new passengers,” DCI stated.
The investigating agency noted that on some occasions the accomplices lie in wait at the drop-off point before turning against the drivers, robbing them off their vehicles, and at times murdering them in cold blood.
This comes after a 42-year-old male taxi operator in Nairobi CBD was hired by a customer to drive him to Nakuru using his Toyota Fielder.
Once in Naivasha, the customer requested that they pick up his two friends at the Karagita area before setting off toward Nakuru.
The passengers turned against the male driver before robbing him of his vehicle and dumping him at the Diatomite area in Gilgil.
A team of detectives from DCI headquarters was deployed to launch a manhunt for the suspects, two of whom were traced to Bungoma County.
“Francis Ojerepata Omoindi, 39, and Jack Odhiambo Otieno, 38 were both arrested and the vehicle was recovered, before being handed over to DCI Gilgil for further police action. In their possession were seven SIM cards, five national ID cards, and two driving licenses,” DCI stated.
Also Read: One Suspect Arrested As DCI Recover AK 47 Stolen From Police Station
