In a disturbing event that highlights significant concerns regarding banking security in Nairobi’s Central Business District, a businessman was robbed of Sh7 million in broad daylight shortly after withdrawing the cash from Absa Bank on Friday morning. The incident, which was recorded by security cameras, took place around 9:47 am on the busy Mama Ngina Street while the victim was on his way to deliver the money to a forex bureau.
According to police reports, a well-coordinated gang of about eight individuals confronted the businessman, knocked him to the ground, and fled with the money on foot as his calls for help went unanswered amid the busy street.
Investigators believe the precision of the attack suggests the perpetrators had prior knowledge of the substantial withdrawal, pointing to a potential insider connection.
“The gang’s actions demonstrated they knew exactly who to target and when,” said a detective involved in the case who requested anonymity due to the ongoing investigation.
This incident follows a troubling pattern of similar robberies targeting bank customers immediately after cash withdrawals.
Just last week, another victim in Kitengela lost Sh307,000 intended for construction workers when he was robbed by individuals posing as police officers.
Police sources reveal three common methods behind these coordinated bank robberies: rogue bank employees leaking client transaction details, information breaches from within the victims’ circles, or criminals posing as customers inside banks to identify potential targets making large withdrawals.
Absa Bank officials declined to comment, stating only that the matter is under investigation.
The frequency of such incidents has prompted renewed calls for enhanced security measures around banking halls and greater vigilance by customers making large withdrawals.
Authorities are urging the public to consider digital transaction alternatives when possible and to exercise extreme caution when handling cash.
The investigation continues as police review security footage and interview witnesses to identify the perpetrators of this brazen daylight robbery.
