DCI Probe Bank Staff Following Pattern of Violent Robberies Against Customers

A surge in violent robberies targeting bank customers in Mumias has prompted a high-stakes investigation into a potential organised crime syndicate, with suspicion falling on possible collusion by bank employees. 

The situation escalated following the fatal shooting of Roselynda Akinyi last Thursday, intensifying calls for immediate action. Detectives are probing a disturbing pattern in which customers withdrawing significant funds from local banks are surveilled and subsequently robbed, often violently. 

Witnesses have reported that rogue bank employees may be providing clients’ withdrawal details to criminal gangs, a suspicion fueled by several recent incidents. Victims include a retired teacher, another teacher from Nyakwaka, and Ali Wawire, Akinyi’s husband, all of whom lost substantial amounts of money under similar circumstances. 

These crimes typically involve tailing victims to locations such as petrol stations, supermarkets, or intercepting them on the road. On Saturday, detectives interrogated bank staff and reviewed security footage as part of their investigation. Employee mobile phones have been subjected to forensic analysis to determine the depth of their involvement. 

A boda boda operator suspected of involvement in the crimes is also under scrutiny. Akinyi and her husband, who operate financial agent shops, have been particularly hard hit by these coordinated crimes. Residents have reported that individuals suspected of being criminals are often seen loitering in banking halls, covertly profiling potential victims. 

East police boss Dorice Chemoss acknowledges the seriousness of the issue, advising residents to exercise caution when withdrawing large sums and recommending they seek police assistance for safer transactions.