Police in Kirinyaga County have arrested three suspected of stealing livestock in the region.

Confiurming the arrest, Ndia Sub County police commander Moses Koskei said the suspects are believed to be masterminds in the livestock theft syndicate.

The three are Bernard Kariuki Rukungu alias 'Musaba’, Patrick Chomba Mugo, and Jacob Njagi Muthinji.

“The suspects are on our list of the most wanted criminals linked to livestock theft. They are being questioned at Sagana police station,” Koskei said.

“Bernard Kariuki Rukungu alias will be taken to Baricho Court today. He hails from Kang'aru village in Ndia and has two butcheries in Mwea-East,” Koskei added.

Another suspect, Patrick Chomba, is being grilled, with his vehicle held at Sagana police station.

“Jacob Njagi is being held at the same police station. He was arrested on October 19, 2023 while ferrying stolen cows.”

Residents have decried a rise in theft cases in the region, saying they have been forced to spend nights guarding their livestock.

They have called upon the police to increase night patrols and man major roads in the region to help end the illegal trade.