A businessman in Kitengela, Kajiado County, is counting his losses after unknown suspects broke into his car and stole Sh1.8 million shortly after he withdrew the cash from a bank.
The 47-year-old man told police that he had withdrawn the money on January 10 to fund a development project in Isinya.
After completing the transaction, he placed the cash in his Toyota Harrier and headed to Isinya before stopping at a popular hotel along Namanga Road for a late lunch.
According to the police report, the businessman parked his car at the hotel entrance and went inside for his meal.
While stepping out to take a phone call, he discovered his car’s window had been shattered, and the bag of cash placed on the backseat was gone.
CCTV footage from the scene revealed that the occupants of another vehicle parked nearby had broken the car window, opened the door, and made off with the money.
The suspects quickly fled the scene in their vehicle, leaving the victim stunned.
Investigators suspect the businessman was trailed from the bank to the hotel, raising concerns about possible insider involvement.
Police believe some banking staff may collude with criminals, tipping them off about customers withdrawing large sums of money.
“It’s common for criminals to pose as customers in banking halls, monitoring those who withdraw substantial amounts. Once the customer leaves, the gang follows and waits for the right moment to strike,” a police spokesperson said.
Police are urging individuals withdrawing large sums of money to request security escort services to avoid falling victim to such crimes.
As investigations continue, officers have visited the bank to gather more information, but no arrests or recoveries have been made so far.