Diani to Samburu: The Mysterious Journey of Missing Driver Victoria Mumbua

The police on Sunday evening apprehended a suspect believed to be involved in a group of car thieves who deceived and robbed female taxi driver Victoria Mumbua who has been missing for five days.

This arrest marks a crucial breakthrough in a case that has raised concerns about the safety of taxi drivers, particularly women, in Kenya. Victoria Mumbua disappeared after accepting a business proposition from a group of individuals who requested transportation from Diani to Samburu. The arrangement included her driving them around Samburu before returning to Diani. The journey commenced on September 25, 2024, but since then, Mumbua's whereabouts have remained unknown, causing increasing concern among her colleagues and family.

The family reported Mumbua's disappearance to Makupa Police Station in Diani, where it was initially filed as a missing person case. A tracker installed in her vehicle last indicated its location in Kisumu before the signal was lost. This prompted a widespread search and a social media campaign initiated by fellow Diani drivers, which quickly gained public attention and drew the interest of law enforcement. The investigation took a significant turn when Mumbua's vehicle was spotted in Nakuru on Sunday, still bearing its original number plates.

This led to the arrest of a male suspect who was taken in for questioning. However, Mumbua was not with the suspect at the time of his arrest, and her location remains unknown. Authorities continue their search efforts, hoping to find her safe and unharmed. Incidents of carjacking and robbery targeting taxi drivers have been increasing, prompting calls for enhanced security measures. The Kenya Taxi Drivers Association has urged the government to implement stricter regulations and provide greater support to ensure driver safety, especially for those working late hours or in remote areas.

The disappearance of Victoria Mumbua has sparked a wave of solidarity among taxi drivers and the general public with many taking to social media to share information and offer support to Mumbua's family. The hashtag #FindVictoria has been trending, with people from various backgrounds joining the search efforts. Police spokesperson Resila Onyango has confirmed the recovery of Mumbua's vehicle but emphasizes that the search for her continues. Law enforcement has also increased patrols and checkpoints in key areas to deter similar incidents in the future.

"We are utilizing all available resources to locate Victoria and bring her home safely. We urge anyone with information to come forward," she says.