A man suspected of impersonating a police officer has been arrested in Kirinyaga County following a sting operation by detectives.
In a statement on Sunday, July 6, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the suspect, identified as Newton Wachira Waweru, was found in possession of police gear and other government-issued items.
The DCI stated that officers acted on intelligence reports which led to Waweru’s arrest.
"Detectives in Kirinyaga East Sub-County have apprehended a man posing as a police officer, recovering several government stores in the process,” read part of the statement.
Following his arrest, detectives interrogated Waweru, who then led them to his residence in Makongeni, Thika where several items were recovered.
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“A search of his premises yielded a trove of government stores including two police smoke jackets, two jungle green trousers, a green prison lanyard, desert military boots, and a replica firearm, among other items,” the statement added.
Authorities say the suspect was immediately taken into custody along with the recovered items.
"Waweru was promptly taken into custody along with the recovered items. He is currently undergoing processing as detectives prepare for his arraignment,” the DCI confirmed.
The Directorate also stated that investigations have been expanded to uncover the full scope of the impersonation scheme.
"Detectives have since launched further investigations to determine the extent of the impersonation and whether the suspect has been involved in other criminal activities under the guise of law enforcement," the statement concluded.
This comes months after detectives arrested two teenagers who were in possession of a firearm.
The duo named Lopua Ekuyem (18) and Lokal Chara (19) were immediately taken into custody ahead of their arraignment as the detectives launched investigations.
According to the DCI, the teenagers were spotted roaming with the AK-47 rifle, which was not loaded with any rounds.
The suspecting members of the public immediately alerted the police, who set out for them.
"A swift response by Lokichogio Police officers to a tip-off from members of the public has led to the arrest of two young suspects, Lopua Ekuyen, 18, and Lokal Chara, 19, who were found in possession of rifle with an empty magazine.
"The two are in custody, undergoing processing ahead of their court appearance. Meanwhile, the recovered firearm and magazine are being held as exhibits," read part of the statement.
