Police officers shot a person of interest and recovered a pistol during a robbery incident in Mugambi Estate, Nanyuki, Laikipia County.

The incident followed intensified police patrols after a string of robbery cases reported in the area over the past month.

According to Laikipia East OCPD Daniel Kitavi, who spoke on Wednesday, April 22, 2026, officers had stepped up surveillance and routine patrols following growing complaints from residents over attacks targeting homes and pedestrians.

Investigators also reviewed CCTV footage from the estate, which captured individuals robbing households during the day and at night before escaping with valuables.

 Gunfire in the estate

Police said they received reports on Tuesday night that four armed individuals were actively robbing members of the public in the estate.

One of them was reportedly carrying a Beretta pistol.

Officers responded to the scene, where the group attempted to escape and opened fire at the pursuing officers.

Police then returned fire, shooting one person of interest at the scene.

Another individual was apprehended, while two others escaped deeper into the estate.

The shooting has renewed concern over insecurity in parts of Nanyuki, where residents have recently raised alarm over night attacks and organised criminal activity.

Pistol recovered

A search at the scene led to the recovery of a pistol, a magazine loaded with two rounds of 9mm ammunition, cash and identification documents linked to the injured individual.

Authorities said the person who was shot was taken to Nanyuki Teaching and Referral Hospital as investigations continue.

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations have since launched a manhunt for the two individuals who escaped.

Police warned that a major operation is underway to trace and apprehend the remaining suspects.

Security officials have urged members of the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activity as officers continue with patrols and follow up operations in the area.

The latest incident now places fresh focus on security operations in Laikipia County as police move to contain rising robbery cases and restore public confidence.