Police officers on Tuesday morning engaged in a shootout with 4 robbers who were holding a family hostage in Thika West.
The detectives were responding to a distress call when the alleged kidnappers opened fire prompting them to fire back.
According to the DCI, the officers were able to gun down one of the thugs before his accomplices escaped, and are still being pursued.
Sleuths were also able to recover one handmade gun, a knife and a hammer from the gangsters.
However, police reports gave no details of the said kidnapped family members and for how long they had been held hostage.
It also remains unclear whether the kidnappers made any ransom demands before the police intervened.
The incident puts into perspective the Police Service’s preparedness as Kenyans look forward to the coming holiday.
The Christmas festivities period is known to attract a higher number of crimes as criminals look to cash in on people’s diminished alertness while celebrating.
The public has always been cautioned to keep vigilance during this season especially at social events and while travelling.
For those travelling to the countryside for Christmas, it is advisable to leave a caretaker to watch over your house regularly for the period that you will be away.
