Police launch probe after gang shoots, injures man

Police in Nakuru have launched a manhunt for three notorious armed robbers who shot and injured a civilian at Olenguruone town within Kuresoi South sub-county. 

Sub-county Police Commander Samson Andanje said the civilian was shot on the arm as he tried pursuing the suspects who were on a motorbike. 

He added that police have since launched a pursuit of the three who are said to have been terrorising residents in the area. 

According to him, the gang made away with an unknown amount of money from the trading centre, calling on residents to provide crucial leads to enable police to make arrests. 

“Our officers are already on ground establishing leads of the three, they shot a civilian on the arm who was pursuing them with his vehicle,” said Andanje. 

The officer said they were yet to determine the type of gun the suspects used saying they have collected spent cartridges for ballistics. 

Warned against pursuing

He warned locals against pursuing armed robbers adding that they should inform authorities to avoid losing their lives in the process. 

“If you are not a trained officer why are you following an armed robber that is suicide mission, inform police and allow them do their work,” said Andanje. 

The three are believed to be part of a gang that has been operating between Kuresoi, Njoro and Nessuit areas demanding cash and other goods. 

Locals who spoke, however accused the police of laxity saying the gang had camped at the center for two days with no action being taken. 

Jane Chepchumba said the suspects arrived on motorbikes, made their way at around 7pm brandishing guns at traders before gaining entry into shops and making away with money. 

She noted that has been the order of the day saying their calls to police has been futile adding that they have to protect their own businesses. 

“We are living in a crime city, goons can arrive and threaten us with guns and no police are responding to our pleas, this is so unfortunate,” said Chepchumba. 

Peter Chirchir noted that they are now forced to close their shops early to avoid such confrontations saying they are terrified living in the area.

He called for heightened patrols in the center vowing to take law into their hands.