NAIROBI, Kenya — A robbery attempt in Jamhuri, Nairobi, was thwarted after police engaged armed suspects in a dramatic chase and shootout along CITAM Church Road, leading to the arrest of one suspect and recovery of a homemade firearm.
According to the National Police Service-Kenya, officers on patrol responded swiftly to distress calls from members of the public after two suspects—riding a motorcycle—allegedly launched a robbery spree targeting pedestrians and motorists in the busy area.
“The incident unfolded along the busy CITAM Church Road, an area usually characterised by the movement of traders, worshippers, motorists and pedestrians going about their daily activities,” the police said in a statement.
Shootout as suspects attempt escape
Police reported that the suspects attempted to flee while firing shots to deter both pursuing officers and members of the public. The exchange of gunfire created panic in the area, briefly disrupting normal activity in the busy neighbourhood.
Officers managed to intercept the pillion passenger during the pursuit. The rider escaped and remains at large, with police confirming that a manhunt has been launched to track him down.
Upon arrest, authorities established that the suspect was in possession of a homemade pistol. Investigators also recovered one spent cartridge and a bullet at the scene, believed to have been discharged during the confrontation.
Public panic and police containment
The situation escalated briefly as members of the public confronted the arrested suspect in anger, but officers intervened to restore order and secure the scene. Police secured the exhibits linked to the incident and prevented further escalation.
Authorities emphasised that quick coordination between officers on patrol and civilians who raised the alarm played a key role in disrupting the robbery attempt before it could intensify.
“The incident serves as yet another demonstration of the importance of police-public partnership and public cooperation in confronting violent crime within the city,” the statement added.
Rising pressure on criminal networks
The incident comes amid intensified security operations across Nairobi, where police say sustained patrols and intelligence-led interventions are aimed at disrupting armed gangs operating in urban hotspots.
Security teams have recently increased surveillance in areas identified as high-risk, responding rapidly to distress calls and attempting to limit mobility for organised criminal groups using motorcycles for hit-and-run robberies.
While police have hailed the arrest as a success, the escape of one suspect underscores ongoing challenges in fully dismantling mobile robbery networks operating within the capital.
Ongoing manhunt
Police confirmed that the search for the escaped rider is ongoing, with officers pursuing leads to dismantle what they believe may be part of a wider criminal network.
“The National Police Service remains committed to serving and protecting the public by sustaining operations aimed at combating criminal activities,” the statement concluded.
The incident adds to growing concern over armed robbery incidents in Nairobi, even as security agencies intensify operations to restore public confidence and curb violent street crime.
