Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed the arrest of nine suspected members of a notorious criminal gang following a targeted security operation in Trans Nzoia West Sub-County.
In a statement posted on its official account on May 1, 2026, the investigative agency said the arrests were made during an intelligence-led operation aimed at dismantling criminal networks that have been linked to rising insecurity in the area.
According to DCI, the operation was conducted by a joint team of detectives from DCI Headquarters working alongside officers from Kitale Police Station, with the mission focusing on Premium and Tuwani areas, which authorities identified as hotspots for gang-related activities.
“Nine suspected members of a notorious criminal gang have been arrested in a decisive, intelligence-led operation targeting criminal groups in Trans Nzoia West Sub-County,” DCI said in its statement.
The agency noted that the operation was executed swiftly after security officers received actionable intelligence on the suspects’ movements and operations.
“Acting swiftly on credible intelligence, the officers swooped in and netted the nine suspects, effectively dismantling a group that has been terrorising residents and disrupting public order,” the statement added.
Authorities believe the arrests mark a significant breakthrough in efforts to restore peace and strengthen security in the affected neighborhoods, where residents have recently raised concerns over gang violence, intimidation, and criminal activity.
The DCI did not immediately disclose the identities of the suspects or specify the offences they are expected to face in court.
However, the agency confirmed that all nine are currently in police custody undergoing processing ahead of their arraignment.“**The suspects are currently in custody undergoing processing as they await arraignment,” DCI stated.
The latest crackdown underscores the government’s ongoing campaign against organised criminal gangs across the country, with security agencies increasingly relying on intelligence-led operations to track down suspects, dismantle criminal cells, and reassure communities living under the threat of gang violence.
