Two suspects deny robbery charges, remanded in Machakos prison

Two individuals have been remanded at Machakos G.K. Prisons after pleading not guilty to charges of robbery with violence, following a high‑profile court appearance at Machakos Law Courts. The suspects — a man and a woman — appeared before Senior Principal Magistrate James Omburah, who revoked their previously granted bonds worth KSh 300,000 each. The court ruled that the pair must be detained while they face multiple similar charges in various jurisdictions.
Prosecutors told the court that the duo are members of a criminal gang that has allegedly been terrorising residents along Mombasa Road. According to the prosecution, the suspects used a private vehicle to pose as passengers before threatening, harming, and robbing victims of valuables — including mobile phones, laptops, and cash — and in some cases forcing victims to transfer money via bank or M‑Pesa accounts.
Three recent victims reportedly lost KSh 80,000, KSh 200,000, and KSh 222,000, and linked their assailants to the same gang.
The alleged operations spanned several towns, including Kyumbi, Mlolongo, and Sultan Hamud, and were carried out using a private Toyota Wish.
The police indicated that they have recorded six separate cases against this gang at Machakos Police Station, with additional reports logged at DCI offices in Machakos, Mlolongo, and Kyumbi, as well as in Kakamega and Londiani.
With the bond revoked, authorities say the suspects will be transferred to the relevant police stations for further processing and formal charges.
Observers say this case highlights the growing sophistication of armed criminal gangs in Eastern Kenya, who are increasingly using deception and vehicles to ply crime routes. As the investigation unfolds, many are calling for strengthened intelligence-led operations and better police-community collaboration to dismantle these networks once and for all. Meanwhile, the remanded pair await their next court appearance as the prosecution prepares to press fuller charges.