The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has warned drivers transporting newly imported vehicles to remain vigilant following an increase in attacks on highways.
In a statement on Thursday, May 7, 2026, DCI revealed that move followed a recent violent highway robbery attempt near Mutomo in Mtito Andei along the busy Nairobi-Mombasa Highway.
“The DCI is urging drivers transporting newly imported transit vehicles to remain vigilant amidst cases of robbery with violence incidents along major highways,” the DCI statement read.
According to the authority, organised criminals often disguise themselves as vulnerable road users or stage emergencies to lure drivers into stopping on major highways.
The DCI said that on May 6, a driver transporting a Subaru Impreza from Mombasa to Kampala was ambushed by a gang using a deceptive tactic.
The suspects, riding a motorcycle, posed as pedestrians and staged an emergency involving one of the pillion passengers pretending to be disabled.
However, when the driver stopped to offer assistance, the gang attempted to hijack the vehicle, brandishing a firearm and physically attacking the driver.
It was then that a gunshot fatally injured one of the assailants, while the remaining two fled the scene on the motorcycle.
The driver was treated for minor injuries at Kambu Hospital and later discharged.
Additionally, the body of the deceased suspect was taken to Kambu Hospital Mortuary.
Detectives have so far launched investigations and are pursuing leads to arrest the two suspects who escaped.
In regards to the incident, the DCI have strongly advised transit vehicle drivers to report suspicious persons or activities rather than intervening directly.
The authorities have further urged drivers to keep doors locked, maintain controlled stops, and stay alert while on the road.
