Detectives from the elite Crime Research & Intelligence Bureau, in collaboration with Imenti North and Murang'a County detectives, have successfully arrested Simon Gitonga, known as 'The Axe Man.'

This 54-year-old serial offender, suspected to be the mastermind behind a series of robberies plaguing Juja in Kiambu County and parts of Murang'a County, had been evading law enforcement for some time.

Gitonga's arrest comes after a warrant for his arrest was issued by the Thika law courts, further cementing his status as a wanted criminal.

The operation leading to his capture was a significant breakthrough for law enforcement agencies in the region.

The arrest took place on Thursday when detectives acting on a tip-off closed in on Gitonga's location.

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The suspect was found in possession of a well-sharpened machete during the arrest, which raised concerns about the potential danger he posed to the public.

This arrest marks a turning point in the efforts to combat rising crime rates in the affected areas.

The local communities in Juja and Murang'a had been living in fear due to a surge in robberies, with the elusive 'Axe Man' at the centre of the mayhem.

Residents can now breathe a sigh of relief knowing that the alleged mastermind behind these crimes is in custody.

The authorities are optimistic that Gitonga's arrest will lead to the dismantling of the criminal network responsible for the recent spate of robberies. I