This archive report was first published on 19 July 2020.
Uasin Gishu county has witnessed a surge in criminal activities since the start of the Covid-19 curfew, with a notable increase in cases of drug dealing and violent robberies.
On Saturday, Kapseret Sub-county police boss Patrick Munyasi announced the arrest of three suspects linked to violent robberies and rape incidents at Langas in Eldoret.
According to Munyasi, the suspects were traced to their hideout after victims identified them and CCTV footage analysis. The suspects, a man and a husband and wife, reportedly used knives and machetes in their attacks.
‘These people have been connected to a series of robberies and burglaries. One of the gentlemen is alleged to have raped someone in the process of a robbery,’ Munyasi said, describing the arrest as a ‘major breakthrough’.
‘The woman in the rape case described the suspect as having a tattoo,’ he added, stating that they would also look into M-Pesa transactions.
The suspects are in police custody amid investigations into the matter. One of the suspects is a known criminal with four pending robbery cases at a Kapsabet court.
County police boss Johnston Ipara said patrols were intensified following public complaints. ‘The people should not fear. We are here for them,’ he said.
Residents of Huruma, Kiplombe, and West Indies have expressed concerns over the increase in break-ins, stating that the criminals monitor police officers’ movements and strike in areas where patrols do not take place.
‘The criminals are playing hide and seek with police and breaking into residential houses and businesses,’ said John Maina from Huruma.
By nation.co.ke
