Editor's Review

The DCI added that the victims were forced to transfer money from their mobile money wallets to the suspects.

Officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested three suspects in connection with a TikTok gang-rape scheme.

In a statement issued on Wednesday, September 9, the DCI confirmed that the detectives arrested three suspects, including a 17-year-old boy.

According to the agency, the suspects lured innocent victims on TikTok on the pretext of friendly encounters, before raping and robbing them.

"Preliminary investigations have established that the suspects allegedly operated an anonymous TikTok page, using it to initiate contact with their victims and arrange physical meetings. 

"Once the women agreed to meet, they were allegedly led to secluded or abandoned areas, where what began as seemingly ordinary encounters turned into terrifying ordeals of sexual violence and robbery," the police report read in part.

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A silhouette of a user accessing the TikTok App.

The DCI added that the victims were forced to transfer money from their mobile money wallets before surrendering their mobile phones and other valuables to the suspects.

The three, Emmanuel Borsire Arisa, Ismail Ouru Arisa and Brian Gatheru Nderitu, were positively identified by victims from separate incidents.

Police officers further recovered six mobile phones from the suspects, who are alleged to be part of a wider criminal network. The investigating officers are also looking for other victims and pursuing other individuals linked to the gun.

Additionally, the DCI warned young Kenyans to be careful about online meet-ups, urging them to always prioritise their security.

"Never let someone you have just met online lead you into a secluded or isolated place; meet in a safe, public setting and ensure someone you trust knows your whereabouts. In the digital world, not every friendly profile is what it appears to be; what looks like an innocent invitation can quickly become a deadly trap," the statement read in part.

Earlier, DCI officers arrested 12 suspects accused of trying to block Mama Rachel Ruto's convoy in Siaya County after the First Lady left the KMTC Siaya Grounds.

The suspects were held in police custody and will be charged with obstruction. DCI warned that obstruction of lawful operations and attacks on police officers will not be tolerated.