DCI recovers car stolen in Buruburu, nabs 2 in Kisauni
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have recovered a vehicle stolen in Nairobi and arrested two individuals in an operation in Kisauni, Mombasa County.
In a statement posted on their X account on March 28, 2025, DCI disclosed that the two individuals, Emmanuel Mugodo Sabwa and Erick Maingi Muimi, were apprehended following an intelligence-led operation that tracked the stolen Toyota Axio to Utange area.
“Kisauni Sub-County detectives have arrested Emmanuel Mugodo Sabwa, 42, and Erick Maingi Muimi, 34, and recovered a stolen motor vehicle. The silver Toyota Axio, registration number KDP 289B, was reported stolen at Buruburu Police Station, Nairobi,” the statement reads in part.
Investigators discovered the car’s original tracking device abandoned approximately 20 meters from the compound where the vehicle was recovered.
“Acting on forensic leads, detectives trailed the vehicle to Utange area, where they discovered its tracking device abandoned roughly 20 meters from a perimeter wall compound where the said motor vehicle was recovered,” the statement added.
According to DCI, the individuals had attempted to conceal the vehicle’s identity by fitting it with a different registration plate and partially dismantling the dashboard.
“At the scene, detectives found the vehicle fitted with a different registration plate KDA 348V and its front dashboard partially dismantled, likely in preparation for a quick resale or parts trade,” the statement further reads.
Items recovered
During the operation, detectives also recovered several items believed to be used in vehicle theft operations and found multiple number plates believed to be of other reported vehicles at the scene of crime.
“Also recovered were assorted car keys, dismantled car trackers, a key programming machine, number plates KDJ 885G, KDP 289B, SSD 763A, and KCT 278Y,” DCI stated.
Additionally, authorities seized two logbooks for motor vehicles KCU 527H and KDA 348V, as well as an HP laptop that may contain further evidence.
The two individuals are currently being detained at Mjambere Police Station awaiting arraignment.
“The suspects are now cooling their heels at Mjambere Police Station, undergoing processing pending arraignment. Meanwhile, the recovered items are being detained as exhibits,” the statement concluded.
