Police arrest suspected bandit, recover AK-47 in Garissa shootout
Officers in Garissa Sub-County were responding to reports of gunfire from members of the public when they encountered the armed suspects.
Police in Garissa town have arrested a suspected bandit and recovered firearms and ammunition after an exchange of gunfire in the Dumpsite area.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) said in a statement on Thursday evening that officers in Garissa Sub-County were responding to reports of gunfire from members of the public when they encountered the armed suspects.
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According to the statement, the officers on patrol engaged the suspects in a shootout. During the confrontation, one suspect was shot, subdued and arrested. He was later taken to Garissa County Referral Hospital, where he was admitted in stable condition.
The DCI confirmed that during the operation, the officers recovered an AK-47 rifle, five magazines, a magazine pouch and 128 rounds of ammunition. The weapons were seized and handed over for further investigation.
Police said a manhunt has been launched for the other suspects who managed to escape during the exchange. Security officers have intensified patrols in the area to track down the remaining bandits.
“The operation was sparked by public reports of gunfire, which prompted officers on patrol to respond swiftly. In the ensuing exchange, one suspect was subdued and arrested after sustaining a gunshot wound. He was rushed to Garissa County Referral Hospital and admitted in a fair condition. Police are in hot pursuit of the remaining bandits, who are now on the run,” A statement from the DCI read in part.
The National Police Service commended members of the public who raised the alarm and encouraged continued cooperation with law enforcement agencies.
“The National Police Service commends the public and its officers for their prompt response and urges everyone to continue supporting security efforts by reporting any suspicious activity,” the statement added.
Garissa has experienced incidents of insecurity in the past, with security agencies frequently conducting operations to curb the circulation of illegal weapons and the activities of armed groups. Police say collaboration with communities remains critical in responding quickly to threats and ensuring safety in the region.
The arrested suspect remains under police custody as investigations continue. Police have said the recovery of the firearm and ammunition is a step in preventing further criminal activities in the area, while efforts to capture the other suspects are still ongoing.
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