A police officer in Nakuru County was killed, while two others were wounded and are recovering in the hospital after an ambush by an armed gang while on patrol on Sunday night.
According to Nakuru East Sub County Police Commander Samson Adanje, the gang launched a surprise attack on the officers in Nakuru's Free Area Estate.
Attempts by the officers to subdue the attackers were unsuccessful, resulting in injuries during the confrontation.
Police have since launched a manhunt for the suspects as investigations into the motive and circumstances surrounding the attack continue.
The injured officers were rushed to a nearby hospital, where they are receiving treatment. Security has since been heightened in the area as police intensify patrols to prevent further incidents.
Following the incident and rising concerns over insecurity, Nakuru Governor Susan Kihika convened a security meeting with county security officials.
Further, Kihika urged the residents to uphold peace as they work to restore calm and ensure security in the city.
''Following the recent wave of armed robberies and the tragic loss of lives in Nakuru, I convened a security meeting with County Commissioner Lyford Kibara and our security teams. We reviewed the disturbing incidents and resolved to work closely with security agencies to pursue leads and ensure those responsible are brought to justice," Kihika stated.
"I urge all Nakuru residents to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity. Let’s stand together to protect our communities, restore calm, and uphold the peace that defines us. I remain fully committed to supporting all efforts to safeguard our people."
Nakuru city has in the past been troubled by armed gangs who often wreaked havoc on residents, prompting the Directorate of Criminal Investigations' top leadership to send a team of specialised investigators to deal with the menace.
In April this year, social media was rife with an amateur video showing a gang operating on a motorbike, often attacking residents and snatching mobile phones in broad daylight.
In October 2023, police in Nakuru apprehended a 10-member gang suspected of terrorising residents and orchestrating numerous thefts following a tip-off from members of the public.
During the operation, the police recovered various items at the scene, including toy guns, rolls of bhang, knives, and mobile phones believed to have been used by the gang in their activities.
