Machakos detectives have dismantled a notorious burglary syndicate that has been terrorizing businesses in Machakos and Joska. In a well-planned sting operation, police arrested Wycliffe Matheka Kithuku, alias Uthex, the alleged mastermind, along with his accomplices Cynthia Mbithe Musyoka and Jackson Wambua Mutinda.
Midnight Raids and a Getaway Bike
For months, the gang had been executing daring hardware break-ins, striking under cover of darkness and vanishing without a trace. Their luck, however, ran out when detectives pounced, recovering their getaway motorcycle (KMGP 114M) along with their notorious burglary tools—a bolt cutter and a long metal rod, allegedly used to break locks and threaten watchmen.
Loot Uncovered in Scrap Metal Hideout
As the investigation unfolded, officers tracked down Brian Wambua Manza in Machakos town, cornering him before he could flee. Under pressure, he led detectives to a scrap metal dealer, where stolen items from a Joska hardware store were hidden. Among the recovered loot were:
- 200 kilograms of nails
- 25 kilograms of hoop iron
- A laptop
Ex-Convicts Back Behind Bars
A deeper probe revealed that Kithuku, Mutinda, and Manza were recently released from Machakos GK Prison, only to return to crime. Their newfound freedom has now been cut short as they face fresh charges and await their court date.
Police Crack Down on Hardware Heists
Authorities have intensified efforts to dismantle criminal networks targeting businesses, warning traders and scrap metal dealers against handling stolen goods. Meanwhile, the recovered items remain in police custody as key evidence in the case.
