Police in Eldoret have arrested four suspects linked to a motorcycle theft syndicate operating in the North Rift and Western regions. During a major intelligence-led operation, authorities recovered 59 motorcycles and 35 engines.
Uasin Gishu County Police Commander Benjamin Mwanthi announced that one of those arrested is a motorcycle dealer, whose premises were found to be filled with suspected stolen motorcycles. The investigation, which had been ongoing for some time, made significant progress over the weekend.
Mwanthi noted that many theft cases had prompted the investigation. He urged anyone who may have fallen victim to the syndicate to visit the Eldoret Central Police Station to help identify some of the recovered motorcycles and engines.
Accompanied by County DCI Boss Daniel Muleli, Mwanthi revealed that the suspects had tampered with motorcycle engines and replaced parts to hide the identity of the stolen bikes. They erased engine numbers, printed fake ones, dismantled the motorcycles, and reassembled them with new parts.
At the police station, some riders were able to identify their stolen bikes and parts. One rider reported that their motorcycle was stolen while parked at night or during work hours.
Mwanthi stated that the number of recovered motorcycles exceeded the reported theft cases in Eldoret, suggesting that the syndicate’s operations extend into neighboring counties and the western region. He also indicated that further arrests are expected.
New Eldoret Central OCS Naftali Muthui was present during the announcement. Mwanthi commended the public for their assistance in providing information that led to the bust of the syndicate.
