A National Police Reserve (NPR) officer has been arrested in Meru County following the recovery of an AK-47 rifle linked to a violent robbery at Kirindini Shopping Centre on December 19, 2025.
The arrest marks a significant breakthrough in ongoing investigations into armed thefts in Igembe South.
The arrest was carried out through a joint operation by detectives from Igembe South, Igembe North, and Mutuati sub-counties. Investigators tracked the suspect to the villages of Kina Meru, Kiutine, and Kina-Duba before apprehending him.
During questioning, the officer disclosed the location where he had buried the AK-47, reportedly used in the December 19 robbery. Authorities recovered the weapon along with a magazine containing two rounds of 7.62 x 39 mm ammunition.
Police also confiscated the officer’s official Government-issued G3 rifle, which included one magazine.
The NPR officer is currently in custody undergoing processing prior to arraignment, while detectives continue efforts to locate his accomplices who remain at large.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) noted that this operation is part of wider security measures across Kenya, intensified during the festive season to safeguard communities against armed robberies and other violent crimes.
“We will act decisively against anyone involved in criminal activities to protect lives and property,” the DCI stated.
This incident raises concerns about the infiltration of criminal networks within police structures, highlighting the need for vigilance in managing personnel with access to official firearms.
Kenya has previously recorded cases where law enforcement officers were implicated in violent crimes, prompting reforms and stricter oversight of firearms issued to police reserves.
Residents in Kirindini have expressed relief over the arrest, with local shop owners noting increased police presence since the robbery.
The ongoing investigation underscores the coordination between different sub-county policing units in addressing organized crime, particularly in areas that have experienced repeated armed thefts.
Authorities continue to urge anyone with information on the remaining suspects to come forward and assist in bringing them to justice, reinforcing the message that criminal networks will face swift action.