By Mandere Onyinkwa
Detectives in Mombasa have arrested a Tanzanian couple suspected of operating a syndicate that allegedly drugged unsuspecting bus passengers before stealing their valuables.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said the latest case was reported on September 18, 2026, after a passenger travelling from Nairobi to Mombasa aboard a Dreamline bus allegedly lost consciousness after being drugged by a fellow passenger.
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According to the DCI, the victim regained consciousness at Tudor Sub-County Hospital, where he discovered that his bag and other personal belongings were missing.
“Somewhere along the journey, the passenger seated next to him allegedly stupefied him, sending him into unconsciousness,” the DCI said.
Detectives from Makupa Police Station launched investigations and followed forensic leads that eventually led them to Magongo, where they arrested the suspects.
The suspects were identified as Pius Paskale Frugenze, 52, and his wife, Redempta Revelian Kuleta, 47. Both are Tanzanian nationals.
A search of their house reportedly led to the recovery of the complainant’s HP laptop and iPhone 17 Pro Max, which detectives said provided a breakthrough in the investigation.
Police also recovered several other items suspected to have been stolen, including mobile phones, 20 phone chargers, 10 wristwatches, 20 wallets and assorted clothing.
Detectives further recovered substances suspected to be stupefying drugs, according to the DCI.
The agency described the suspects as being behind a racket targeting unsuspecting passengers, but did not disclose the number of other alleged victims or the period over which the suspected syndicate had been operating.
The two suspects remained in custody as detectives processed the case ahead of their arraignment in court.
The recovered items have been detained as exhibits as investigations continue.
The DCI urged members of the public to remain vigilant when travelling and to exercise caution when accepting food, drinks or other substances from strangers, particularly during long-distance journeys.
