Crime scene tape. [iStockphoto]
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has recovered an M16 rifle suspected of being linked to four murders in Isiolo and neighbouring Meru County.
The rifle, loaded with five rounds of 5.56×45mm ammunition, was recovered in the Kakili area of Burat Location during a multi-agency operation involving police, National Police Reservists (NPRs) and National Government Administration Officers (NGAOs).
“Acting on actionable intelligence, the team recovered the M16 rifle, believed to be linked to notorious bandit Aloise Lochuchu alias ‘Akoo,’ who was recently charged with robbery with violence,” the DCI said in a statement.
Detectives suspect the firearm was used in four separate murder cases reported in the two counties between January 2025 and February 2026.
They are investigating whether it was also involved in other crimes.
“The recovery has opened a can of worms, with detectives now probing the firearm’s suspected links to four separate murder cases,” the DCI noted.
The rifle has been secured at the Isiolo Police Station armoury and will be sent to the National Forensic Laboratory for ballistic examination.