Public figure and online commentator Jayden Fabio has weighed in on the growing wave of Toyota Harrier grille thefts being reported across Nairobi.
In a statement shared online, Fabio warned individuals involved in the thefts that Kenyan law carries heavy penalties for such offences.
He stated that stealing vehicle parts could attract a prison sentence of “not less than fourteen years,” as concern continues to grow over the organised targeting of Harrier owners in traffic and parking areas.
“In the laws of Kenya, that kind of theft is punishable by not less than fourteen years,” Jayden Fabio said.
His remarks come days after several videos circulated online showing suspected thieves removing Toyota Harrier front grilles within seconds before escaping through traffic or crowded streets.
One of the incidents involved a United Nations-plated Toyota Harrier that was targeted along Parklands Road in Nairobi while stuck in traffic. Dashcam footage showed several suspects working together before fleeing with the grille.
Jayden Fabio //Instagram
Rising Cases of Harrier Grille Theft in Nairobi
Authorities and motorists have raised an alarm over the increasing number of cases involving stolen Harrier grilles.
CCTV clips shared online have shown suspects operating in residential parking areas, busy roads, and traffic jams, often completing the theft in under a minute.
Reports indicate that newer Toyota Harrier models have become a prime target because of the high resale value of the grilles and their strong demand in the second-hand spare parts market.
According to road safety advocates, some original Harrier grilles can reportedly fetch up to KSh120,000 on the black market, depending on the model and condition.
The thefts have pushed some vehicle owners to reinforce their grilles with metal brackets, rivets, and anti-theft fittings in an attempt to make removal more difficult.
“The entire process is often completed in under a minute,” reports on the incidents stated.
Social Media Reactions and Public Concern
The incidents have sparked widespread discussion on Kenyan social media platforms, with motorists expressing frustration over the boldness of the thieves.
Several content creators and influencers have also shared personal experiences involving attempted thefts in Nairobi traffic.
Some vehicle owners admitted they now avoid certain roads during heavy congestion or choose guarded parking spaces to reduce the risk.
The trend has also highlighted the growing market for stolen spare parts. Road safety campaigners have urged motorists to avoid purchasing cheap parts from unverified dealers, arguing that the demand for cheaper replacements continues to fuel the theft syndicates operating within the city.
Jayden Fabio //Instagram
Focus Turns to Enforcement and Prevention
As the videos continue to circulate online, calls for stronger enforcement and tighter surveillance have intensified.
Many Kenyans are now urging authorities to crack down on organised gangs believed to be behind the thefts.
Security experts say public awareness, secure parking, and proper verification of spare part dealers could help reduce the growing number of cases.
Meanwhile, Jayden Fabio’s warning has added to the broader conversation surrounding crime, accountability, and vehicle security in Nairobi.
His comments quickly spread online as more motorists shared concerns over the rising thefts targeting one of Kenya’s most popular SUV models.
