Police kill criminal alleged to be part of gang that terrorise Nakuru residents

Nakuru, Kenya: Police officers shot and killed a middle aged man believed to be part of a gang that has been terrorizing residents and business operators in Nakuru town using weapons.

Confirming the incident Nakuru police boss Bernard Kioko said police officers received a tip off from members of the public around 10pm on Monday that the gang was terrorizing and stealing from operators within town.

"The suspected gang armed with offensive weapons was stealing valuables from operators at night," said Kioko.

Kioko said when the officers ordered the thugs to surrender; they shot at the officers prompting them to fire back killing one on the spot while four others escaped with injuries.

"There was fire exchange after the thugs spotted officers. One of them was killed on the spot while four others escaped with serious injuries," he stated.

Police officers recovered a Somali sword from the deceased who was taken to Nakuru Municipal mortuary awaiting autopsy and identification.

The police boss pointed that a manhunt has commenced to arrest the four suspects who escaped.

According to the officer the robbers are part of cropping highway robbers attacking operators using weapons in town.

"Police officers will continue conducting patrols to ensure all suspected gangsters and criminals are arrested to curb insecurity," he stated.

Following the incident, Nakuru County Commissioner Mohamed Birik has said security agents will continue being on alert to avoid any incidences of insecurity in the fast growing town.

"Security officers are collaborating with administration officers to ensure nobody causes insecurity that impact negatively on development," said Birik.

Birik has also called on residents in possession of illegal fire arms and crude weapons to surrender to police officers.

The commissioner has also directed all deputy commissioners in the county to man security in their areas by holding barazas and sensitizing security issues among residents.

"The government will not tolerate criminals. Any suspected individual found indulging in criminal incidences will also be arrested," warned the commissioner.