Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, have arrested a 56-year-old person of interest in connection with a child trafficking probe and safely rescued a 10-year-old boy.

The operation took place on April 6, 2026, in Nyamira Village after members of the public alerted authorities about an unfamiliar man seen in the area with a young child. Officers responded to the tip-off and found the individual, identified as Gilbert Nyabuto, in the company of the boy.

Nyabuto reportedly introduced himself to the officers as a “Deputy Commissioner” with the National Intelligence Service and presented an identification document bearing that rank and a corresponding service number.

“Detectives in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, have arrested a 56-year-old man suspected to be a child trafficker and recovered assorted suspicious documents while safely rescuing a minor.

“Acting on a tip-off from members of the public, the officers responded to reports of an unfamiliar man seen at Nyamira Village in the company of a young boy. Upon arrival, detectives found the suspect, identified as Gilbert Nyabuto, in the company of a 10-year-old boy.”

Child rescued after public tip-off

According to the DCI, residents had raised concern after noticing the man moving around the village with the minor. Detectives who responded to the report approached the pair and began preliminary questioning.

When asked about the child, Nyabuto stated that he was assisting the boy to secure accommodation. Officers then escorted both the person of interest and the minor to Kiminini Police Station for further processing and verification.

Authorities later confirmed the child’s identity after contacting his mother, who lives in the Salona area. The boy was subsequently reunited with his family.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations said the quick response by residents played a key role in the child’s safe rescue.

Suspicious documents recovered

During the operation, detectives conducted a search of a backpack in Nyabuto’s possession. The search uncovered several suspicious items, including academic documents belonging to different individuals.

Officers also recovered blank Kenya Defence Forces calling letters that investigators believe are fake.

The discovery raised questions about the activities of the person of interest and the possible use of forged documents. Detectives are now examining the materials to determine their origin and potential use.

Investigations ongoing

Nyabuto remains in custody as detectives continue investigations into the matter. Authorities are seeking to establish the full scope of the activities under investigation.

The probe is focusing on possible offences that may include impersonation and fraud. Investigators are also working to determine whether the incident is linked to other cases involving child exploitation.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations reiterated its commitment to protecting the public and commended members of the public whose tip-off led to the arrest and the rescue of the minor.

The agency urged citizens to continue reporting suspicious activities to help prevent crime and safeguard children.