The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued a warning to drivers transporting newly imported transit vehicles to remain vigilant following a rise in robbery with violence incidents along major highways.
In a statement, the DCI highlighted a recent attack that occurred on May 6, 2026, near the Mutomo area in Mtito Andei, where a driver ferrying a Subaru Impreza from Mombasa to Kampala was ambushed in what investigators believe was a premeditated trap.
According to the report, the driver encountered two men on a motorcycle who emerged from a thicket and blocked his path. The suspects reportedly posed as Good Samaritans, with one pretending to be a disabled person on crutches while the other sought assistance.
When the driver stopped, the situation quickly turned violent. One of the assailants allegedly produced a firearm and attempted to hijack the vehicle. A struggle ensued inside the car during which the weapon discharged, fatally injured one of the suspects.
The remaining attackers fled the scene on a motorcycle, abandoning both the injured driver and the deceased accomplice.
Police officers responded swiftly to the incident, rushing the driver to Kambu Hospital for treatment where he was later discharged.
The body of the deceased suspect was moved to Kambu Hospital Mortuary. Detectives have since launched investigations and are pursuing leads to apprehend the two fugitives.
The DCI said the incident reflects a growing trend in which organised criminal groups use deceptive tactics, including posing as stranded or vulnerable road users, to lure unsuspecting motorists into stopping before launching violent attacks.
“By playing on sympathy, they lure victims into stopping, only to resort to violence using firearms in coordinated attacks along the highway,” the DCI said.
Drivers transporting transit vehicles have been advised not to stop for strangers along highways and to report any emergencies to police authorities instead.
The agency further urged motorists to remain alert, keep vehicle doors locked, and avoid unnecessary stops, especially in isolated areas.
The DCI reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing highway security and ensuring the safety of all road users across the country.
