The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has apprehended three individuals suspected of orchestrating the abduction of a pastor in Nairobi, Kenya, last Thursday.
According to reports, the trio allegedly kidnapped and robbed the pastor of his phone and cash while he was walking to a restaurant near the Nyayo National Stadium late Thursday night.
In a statement released on Saturday, the DCI revealed that the three suspects were apprehended at their homes located in Syokimau, Kitengela, and Kamito, respectively.
The operation was led by detectives from the DCI Nairobi Area Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau, with support from counterparts in Lang’ata.
The victim, a pastor associated with a city church, notified the police that he was heading to dinner after organizing activities for the upcoming Benny Hinn crusade at Nyayo National Stadium.
The incident was swiftly reported at Nyayo Police Post, prompting an immediate investigation.
While walking to a restaurant near the stadium, the pastor was confronted by three men who forcibly placed him in a waiting saloon car.
“Once in the car, the man of the cloth reported to have been stripped naked and photos of him taken before he was forced to reveal his M-PESA pin lest the photos be uploaded on his social media platforms,” the DCI stated
“Complying under duress, Sh55,000 was transferred to one of the suspect’s phone and thereafter he was released.”
In response to the incident, the DCI team diligently analyzed forensic clues available, leading them to trace the suspects to a residence in Syokimau.
As a result, the first suspect was apprehended. A subsequent search of his residence uncovered three mobile phones, including an iPhone 13 containing the SIM card linked to the alleged receipt of the stolen Sh55,000, along with a PDQ bank card swapping machine.
After a brief interrogation, the initial suspect cooperated with investigators, leading them to Kitengela, where his accomplice was arrested.
The second suspect was allegedly found in possession of the victim’s phone.
The three individuals are currently being detained at Langata Police Station, awaiting their arraignment scheduled for Monday.