Police in Nakuru are investigating a shocking case involving a 44-year-old woman who was arrested after being linked to the operation of an illegal detention facility within the city. The arrest followed days of investigations sparked by growing concern among residents whose relatives had gone missing under unclear circumstances.
The woman was arrested in Kivumbini estate, a residential area within Nakuru City, where police discovered that she had allegedly been holding dozens of people against their will.
Investigators established that the facility began operating on December 5, 2025, and had been active for several days before authorities moved in. During this period, the suspect is said to have carried out arrests on her own while presenting herself as someone with policing authority.
Police confirmed that the woman had no connection to the National Police Service or any other law enforcement agency.
Despite this, she allegedly moved around the city arresting people and detaining them without any legal mandate. According to police records, at least 36 motorists were detained after she accused them of driving under the influence of alcohol. These motorists were reportedly picked up from different parts of the city and held without being taken to a police station or court.
Photo of the woman alleged to be running an illegal detention facility in Nakuru. Photo Courtesy/Dr Irene Mwende/Facebook
Further investigations revealed that eight young men were also detained after being accused of loitering and involvement in drug-related activities.
In another incident, three men were apprehended along Kanu Street after the suspect accused them of attempting to carjack a vehicle. Police reports also showed that 19 other individuals were detained after being accused of pickpocketing within Nakuru town.
One of the most troubling findings was that 98 men were confined after being accused of domestic assault.
Investigators said these individuals were subjected to punitive detention conditions despite no formal charges being filed against them.
Police established that none of the detainees were given access to legal procedures, court orders, or any lawful process during their confinement.
The case came to light after residents raised alarm over missing family members and unusual activities at the premises. Acting on these reports, police officers conducted an operation over the weekend, leading to the arrest of the suspect and the rescue of those being held. All detainees were later released after police recorded their statements and verified the circumstances surrounding their detention.
Authorities said the case is being treated as one involving impersonation, unlawful confinement, and other related criminal offences.
The suspect was presented before the Nakuru Law Courts as investigations by security agencies continue. Police have assured the public that further action will be taken once investigations are complete and have urged residents to report any suspicious activities to the authorities.