Police arrested nine suspected gang members in Bushangala, Kakamega South, during an intelligence-led operation on Friday, December 5, 2025.
The operation was triggered by growing concerns from residents regarding criminal activities including damage to property and attacks on law enforcement officers.
"The individuals are suspected of involvement in organised crime, including criminal damage to property and assaults on police officers," a statement by the National Police Service (NPS) stated.
During the raid, officers seized machetes, bows and arrows, and a club. The recovered items were secured at the police facility pending use as evidence.
The nine suspects were taken into custody pending processing for arraignment.
The police praised the community for its cooperation, noting that the operation had been made possible by accurate information provided by members of the public.
"The National Police Service commends the public for providing crucial information and the officers involved for their swift response," the Service said.
NPS reaffirmed its commitment to safeguarding communities and cracking down on violent criminal networks across the country, urging locals to continue reporting suspicious activities to help maintain security in the region.
This incident follows the arrest of seven suspected gang members by police in Kirinyaga just months ago. The suspects were believed to be behind several criminal activities in Kirinyaga East and Mwea East sub-counties.
During the search, the police found the suspects hiding in the Maisha Kamili area of Kutus town.
The police also found tools for breaking into houses, as well as knives and machetes, during the arrest.
These arrests followed the detention of 300 suspects in Nairobi in connection with a recent surge in robberies and muggings in the Central Business District (CBD). The police urged victims of crime to come forward and provide statements to support the investigations.
The police and the Nairobi County government had led a coordinated countywide crackdown to restore safety in the CBD.
