Kiambu County Police Commander Doris Kemey has announced a major breakthrough in the investigation into looting that followed recent protests. The police recovered a variety of items — including television sets, mattresses, gas cylinders, and bicycles — believed to have been stolen from the Quickmart branch in Ruiru. The goods were seized from a store in the Masaku area, and a man identified as Geoffrey Mbugua, who allegedly stored the looted merchandise, has been arrested in connection with the incident. The Informer+2Citizen+2
Kemey revealed that the recovery operation is part of a broader crackdown on looting linked to the nationwide protests held recently to mark the anniversary of the June 25, 2024, youth demonstrations. According to her, so far 154 suspects have been arrested in Kiambu County for looting and property destruction. Radio47+1 In addition to the Quickmart goods, officers recovered firearms reportedly stolen from Dagoretti police station. Thika Town Today – 3T+1 During the raid on Mbugua’s premises, the police also discovered 42 litres of ethanol, fake Kenya Revenue Authority stickers, and cartons of adulterated alcohol. The Informer
The development has elicited strong reactions from both the police and the public. Commander Kemey praised ordinary citizens who came forward with information that helped in the recovery, calling the effort a breakthrough. The Informer She further issued a stern warning, urging anyone involved in looting or violence during protests to expect accountability. The Informer On the other hand, the arrests and recovered items have sparked relief among business owners, who worry that opportunistic looting could worsen unrest and undermine public trust in security institutions.
Looking ahead, the Kiambu County command has vowed to maintain pressure on those still at large. The investigation into the looting network is ongoing, with officers promising to pursue other suspects believed to be harboring looted property. Citizen+1 Kemey also reaffirmed that the security apparatus will continue to guard against further looting during future demonstrations, signaling a tougher posture from law enforcement in the county.
Goods stolen from Quickmart recovered — Kiambu County police commander Doris Kemei
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