Detectives in Kiminini have arrested a 56-year-old man suspected of child trafficking and rescued a 10-year-old boy following a tip-off from members of the public.
The suspect, identified as Gilbert Nyabuto, was apprehended at Nyamira village in Trans Nzoia County after residents reported spotting an unfamiliar man in the company of a young boy under suspicious circumstances.
Acting swiftly on the information, officers responded to the scene and found the suspect with the minor.
According to investigators, Nyabuto allegedly introduced himself as a “Deputy Commissioner” with the National Intelligence Service and presented an identification document bearing that rank and a corresponding service number.
However, detectives grew suspicious and searched a backpack he was in possession of.
The search reportedly uncovered assorted academic documents belonging to different individuals, as well as blank, fake calling letters purporting to be from the Kenya Defence Forces.
The discovery raised serious concerns about possible impersonation, fraud, and trafficking activities.
When questioned about his relationship with the child, the suspect claimed he was assisting the boy in securing accommodation.
Both the suspect and the minor were escorted to Kiminini Police Station for further processing as investigations commenced.
Authorities later confirmed that the child was positively identified by his mother, who hails from the Salona area.
The boy has since been safely reunited with his family.
The suspect remains in police custody as detectives pursue further investigations to establish the full extent of his activities and determine whether additional victims may be involved.
READ ALSO: Why schools, teachers are key in taming rising child trafficking cases
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has reiterated its commitment to safeguarding children and protecting the public from criminal elements.
The agency also commended members of the public for their vigilance and timely reporting, which led to the arrest and the safe rescue of the minor.
By Nyongesa Wekesa
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