8 arrested as cops pursue more Thika Road phone snatchers

Police have so far arrested eight suspects and mounted a manhunt for more as they work to apprehend young men who were caught on camera stealing from motorists and pedestrians on Thika Road.

The muggings overshadowed President William Ruto's Tuesday tour of Ruaraka and Mathare Area 4, with the perpetrators seemingly capitalising on vulnerable motorists stuck in traffic jam.

Footage shared online showed a group of young men vandalising vehicles and stealing mobile phones and other valuables from motorists and passengers in public transport vehicles near NYS headquarters and Survey.

On Thursday, police said in a statement one suspect who was armed with a knife when he attacked and robbed an unsuspecting individual of an Oppo A77S mobile phone valued at Sh28,000, was arrested.

"He was apprehended along Thika Highway and was escorted to Pangani Police Station," police said.

The officers said another set of seven suspects who were spotted terorrising and robbing people in Mathare Area 4 were also arrested and are being held at the Muthaiga Police Station.

"They are among a group of 10 who robbed members of the public of their phones and other valuables in Mathare Area 4. Also recovered in their possession were seven brand-new shirts, believed to be stolen property.

Police said all the suspects were processed and subsequently arraigned. 

"Meanwhile, police officers have intensified their crackdown to bring to justice additional suspects involved in these criminal acts," police said as they encourage members of the public to volunteer information to police that may help bring all the suspects to book.

Those with information are urged to call 0800 722 203 and report anonymously. 

President Ruto on Monday embarked on a five-day tour of Nairobi inspecting and launching infrastructure projects aimed at improving the city and creating job opportunities for the youth.

Criminal elements, however, appear to have hijacked the tour and unleashed terror on motorists, pedestrians, passengers and business premises along Thika Road, Juja Road and Outering Road where Ruto's convoy had passed.

Several people were injured as they fled the attackers, with witnesses blaming police for slow response.

Interior PS Raymond Omollo, however, absolved police from blame saying whereas they have a responsibility to protect property and life, there must be a balance.

“A balance in the sense that we have the responsibility to maintain security and protect Kenyans and their property. At the same time, we must also consider how we deal with criminals. Otherwise, we may risk violating fundamental human rights,” Omollo said on Spice FM on Wednesday.

He spoke on the same day the President toured Dagoretti and Westlands Subcounties where a heavy police presence was evident.