DCI nabs 4 suspects in notorious Nairobi vehicle theft syndicate

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested four suspects linked to a notorious motor vehicle theft syndicate operating in Nairobi and its environs.

Among those apprehended is Mutua Julius John, believed to be the mastermind behind the syndicate. His arrest led to the recovery of a stolen Toyota Axio, initially registered as KDR 722K but later fitted with counterfeit number plates KDM 697Z.

Further investigations following Mutua’s arrest led to the capture of three more suspects, each playing a key role in the syndicate’s operations.

Simon Mumo Chege was arrested in Grogon, within Nairobi’s Central Business District, and is reputed for tampering with and altering chassis numbers of stolen vehicles to cover their tracks.

Raphael Oloo Kira was apprehended for his skills in panel beating, riveting, and the manufacture of fake number plates—techniques used to disguise stolen vehicles.

George Nyakundi Ogoro was caught for fraudulently hiring vehicles using forged identification documents, which he would then steal and resell on the black market.

All four suspects are currently in police custody as investigations continue. They are expected to be arraigned in court once processing is complete.
The DCI has urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities related to vehicle sales or rentals.

Mutua Julius John, the mastermind behind car thieveries around the Capital. The stolen Axio car had been fixed with fake registration plates; KDM 697Z https://t.co/0wFaIw4X85 pic.twitter.com/WLnMadJd51— DCI KENYA (@DCI_Kenya) April 5, 2025