By Ali Abdi
Dozens of business premises, public institutions, motorists and homes in Isiolo town have come under attack from armed men zooming around on motorbikes in the last ten days.
So far, three people have been killed, four suspects arrested and some stolen valuables recovered by police.
Targeting by the thugs in an unusual urban style robbery in the town known more for inter-clan conflict and rustling has baffled the district security committee.
The criminals, armed with pistols and riding on motorbikes, have so far attacked several bars, shops, homes, motorists, Isiolo District Hospital and Kiwanjani Primary School.
Last Friday, thugs attacked a bar at Kulamawe estate, robbed the bar cashier and patrons before fleeing on motorbikes.
A day earlier, a shop and chemist in the heart of the town were attacked by four armed men on motorbikes. At Libuke shop, they stole more than Sh60,000.
‘‘We were preparing to close before men on motorbikes stopped by and started firing in the air. They told us to lie down before emptying the cash box,’’ said Samuel Mutuma, the lead shop attendant.
Last Tuesday night, a club at Kiwanjani was robbed in a similar manner.
Earlier in the day at around 10am, thugs forced their way into Isiolo District Hospital cash office and stole about Sh5,000.
The thugs had also been robbing homes and stalking businessmen all the way to their homes.
Over the past week, the town had remained deserted from 9pm due to the havoc caused by the criminals.
‘‘It’s no longer business as usual in Isiolo town especially at night. We are forced to close early due to fear of attack. This is rather strange and we urge police have to intervene,’’ said John Kubai, a trader in Isiolo town.
