Detectives have arrested a third suspect in connection with a Sh1 million daylight robbery in which two women were ambushed by four-armed men along the Shamakhokho–Serem road in Vihiga county.

The suspect, identified as 36-year-old Sammy Angwegwe, was arrested in the Esirulo area of Emuhaya following an intelligence-led operation involving detectives from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB), Western Region, officers from Embali Police Station and detectives from DCI in Hamisi.

The robbery occurred on October 19 shortly after the victim and her friend withdrew Sh1 million from a bank in Mbale.

The money, which was intended for the purchase of building materials, was placed in a shopping bag before the two women began their journey home.

The two boarded a matatu and alighted at Shamakhokho stage, where they hired a motorcycle to take them to Chemobo Village in Nandi county.

However, their journey took a frightening turn near Erusui Girls School when a white Toyota Probox suddenly blocked their way.

Four men reportedly emerged from the vehicle, with two of them armed with pistols.

The attackers confronted the women before grabbing the shopping bag containing the money and another bag carrying personal valuables.

The suspects then escaped towards Serem Town, leaving the victims shaken by the sudden attack.

Detectives immediately launched investigations, documenting the incident and pursuing leads that could help identify and apprehend those responsible.

The investigation later gained momentum after a coordinated operation involving several security agencies led detectives to Angwegwe's hideout in Emuhaya.

The latest arrest brings to three the number of suspects apprehended over the robbery. The three remain in custody as detectives continue pursuing additional leads.

In its statement, the DCI said detectives were seeking to "unravel the full extent of the criminal enterprise" as they work to identify and arrest everyone linked to the incident.

Police have urged members of the public to share information that could assist ongoing investigations and help bring those involved to justice.