Fear as armed gang terrorises Isiolo residents at night
John Mutembei who was attacked and robbed by a gang in Kiracha, Isiolo on January 7, 2022.
Kulamawe residents in Isiolo have appealed to the government to beef up security in the area following the emergence of an armed gang that has been terrorising them at night.
Armed with crude weapons, the gang of three has been attacking traders and residents while riding on a motorbike.
The criminals on Thursday night attacked and badly injured two men and robbed them of an unknown amount of money and other items.
One of the victims, John Mutembei, was attacked a few metres from his home in Kiracha area at 9pm. He was robbed of Sh3200.
The trio, who had parked a motorbike near Mr Mutembei’s gate, grabbed his phone and ordered him to sit down.
"They asked me to stop but as soon as I started running away, one of the thugs slashed me with a machete in the head," Mr Mutembei told Nation.Africa.
The attackers ordered Mr Mutembei share his M-Pesa PIN which he obliged.
The father of one said the criminals had already taken his house rent from his pocket before the attackers ordered him to go home. He went to Isiolo Referral Hospital where he was treated.
The daring criminals would minutes later attack a man and a lady near Waso Primary School diversion.
The woman managed to escape but the man was beaten up. He sustained head, hand and leg injuries. The gang robbed him of his mobile phone.
The attackers proceeded to the Soko Mjinga area where they broke into several shops and stole some items and money.
As they headed towards Kambi ya Juu, the residents attacked the criminals, badly injuring one as his two accomplices escaped.
He was rescued by police officers from Kulamawe Police Station and rushed to Isiolo Referral Hospital where he is currently fighting for his life.
The Friday night attacks have spread fear among Isiolo residents.
Some of the traders told Nation.Africa that they were forced to close their business premises early to avoid attacks by the gang.
"We want security beefed up in the area through increased patrols," a trader said.
Isiolo Sub-County Police Commander George Kariuki said the suspect will aid in ongoing investigations.
The police boss said they will also establish the owner of the motorbike that the three were riding.
He appealed to residents to volunteer information to help in the arrest of two criminals who are at large.
