Five suspects are in police custody following a major breakthrough by detectives investigating a gruesome double murder that occurred in Tonto Village, Kamwimbi Location in Tharaka Nithi County.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the attack took place on the night of May 21, 2026, when a gang armed with firearms and crude weapons stormed a homestead at around 9 p.m., killing two people and leaving two others with serious injuries.
The assailants reportedly attacked a man at the entrance to the compound before firing several shots into the air to scare away residents.
They then advanced deeper into the homestead where they fatally attacked an elderly woman. Two other victims sustained severe injuries and were rushed to hospital for treatment.
In a statement posted on its X account on June 10, 2026, the DCI said detectives from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB) headquarters took over the probe due to the seriousness of the incident.
“Owing to the grave nature of the incident, detectives from CRIB Headquarters swiftly took over the investigation, embarking on an intensive intelligence-led operation,” the agency stated.
The investigations, supported by forensic analysis and intelligence gathering, led to a series of coordinated operations conducted between June 4 and June 8.
The operations resulted in the arrest of Benson Mugendi Patrick, Kibet Collins Kemboi, Wilson Kinyua Nyaga, Josphat Nyaga Njue and Joseph Kinyua Njeru, also known as Maruu.
The DCI revealed that preliminary findings point to a carefully orchestrated criminal conspiracy.
“Preliminary investigations reveal a meticulously planned criminal conspiracy. Forensic analysis and intelligence reports have proven crucial in unravelling this chilling plot,” the statement added.
The five suspects remain in custody as detectives continue pursuing additional individuals believed to have participated in the attack.
“The DCI is steadfast in its commitment to ensuring that every individual involved in these brutal killings is identified, arrested, and brought to justice,” the agency said.
