Sixth suspect arrested in Nakuru M-Pesa killings as manhunt widens

‎Nakuru County Commissioner Loyford Kibaara, with County Police Commander Michael Mwaura, displays an AK47 rifle and three rounds of ammunition seized from four suspects arrested in connection with recent shootings in Nakuru that claimed the lives of four M-Pesa agents and a police officer on June 2, 2025. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

Elijah Kimani Kinyanjui has been arrested in an operation conducted in the Mzee wa Nyama area of Nakuru County.

Kimani becomes the sixth suspect linked to a series of violent robberies in Nakuru. A day earlier, four suspects connected to shooting incidents that resulted in the deaths of four M-Pesa vendors and a police officer were arrested.

An AK-47 rifle and three rounds of ammunition were also recovered, as police affirmed their commitment to intensify the manhunt for more suspects.

Nakuru County Commissioner Loyford Kibaara said, “Among those arrested are a 43-year-old woman and three men aged between 29 and 35.”

Police reports indicate that the four suspects were apprehended at their hideout in Umoja Lodge within Nakuru town centre. The suspects were identified as William Nywhili Rioba, Nyahili Nyamuhaga Magige, Emmanuel Muita Muita, Catherine Nkatha Zakayo, and Peter Chacha.

According to the report, detectives also recovered four mobile phones, assorted SIM cards, bus tickets dated May 25, 2025, in the name of Mwita Emmanuel, and a motorcycle.

Items recently stolen from a Pakawa resident by armed gunmen were found in Kimani’s possession. He has been handed over to detectives from Nakuru East and will be enjoined in the case facing the previously charged accomplices.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reassures residents of Nakuru County—and Kenyans across the country—that their security remains a top priority.

Several anti-robbery units have been deployed to pursue identified armed gangs whose operations have already been analysed. The ongoing operations aim to end the reign of terror and rid the streets of armed criminals.