KISUMU, Kenya — Police have launched a manhunt for three armed robbery suspects captured on CCTV after they raided a residential estate in Kisumu, injured one person and stole property of unknown value.
The early morning attack occurred at Kamrongo Estate, where the three suspects reportedly terrorised residents using crude weapons before fleeing the scene.
Security camera footage shows the suspects scaling the estate’s perimeter gate at about 3am before making their way into one of the houses. Investigators believe the gang targeted residents before escaping with valuables.
One of the victims recounted the terrifying ordeal, saying the attackers forced their way into the house and threatened to shoot them if they resisted.
“Walikuwa watu wawili na walikuwa wanasema, ‘Usijaribu kupiga kelele hapa tutakushoot.’ Sasa wakanivuta kuenda mpaka bedroom, huko tukawapea simu zote zenye tulikuwa nazo,” the resident said.
Another resident said one of the suspects brandished what appeared to be a firearm after realising he was not intimidated.
“Walikuja wakapiga torch kwangu ndani, sasa vile aliona siogopi akarushiwa gun akaanza kunitishia nayo, but vile aliona hata mimi niko na panga wakatoka wakaenda,” the resident said.
Residents say insecurity has worsened in Kamrongo Estate over the past three months, with criminal gangs becoming increasingly emboldened in carrying out attacks.
One resident recalled an earlier incident in which a suspected thief allegedly attempted to assault members of the public who had responded to a distress call.
“Kuna mwizi fulani alikuwa amebeba TV. Vile alituona akasema kuna wengine hapa kujeni, so alikuwa anaim kudunga mtu, akarusha crowbar ikapata mtu kwa uso,” the resident said.
Kamrongo Neighbours Association Chairman Moses Kidi called on the National Police Service (NPS) to strengthen security in the area by improving police mobility to facilitate regular patrols.
“If this police station can be enhanced by giving them transport, then they can do regular patrols because we have a very good response team at Chiga, but now movement has been a problem,” Kidi said.
One person who sustained injuries during the robbery is receiving treatment.
Police have since launched investigations and are pursuing the three suspects, who remain at large.
