Narok County Police Commander Patrick Lobolia has linked the rising wave of insecurity in Transmara West Sub-County to the increasing gold mining activities in the area.
The upsurge of crime comes even as police intensify operations to restore calm following the killing of two suspected armed robbers during a weekend security crackdown.
Fear and tension continued to grip residents and business owners in parts of the area after a series of robbery incidents that have disrupted normal activities and heightened concerns over public safety.
The latest incident unfolded over the weekend when three armed robbers allegedly stormed a local pub and made away with several bottles of alcohol before fleeing the scene.
Acting on intelligence reports, police officers launched a manhunt that led to the interception of the suspects during a security operation.
According to Lobolia, the suspects were heavily armed with an AK-47 rifle loaded with live ammunition, two Maasai swords, a hammer and a pair of pliers. Police believe the gang has been linked to several robbery incidents that have terrorised residents in the area.
During the operation, two of the suspects were shot dead while the third escaped with serious injuries. Security officers have since launched a fresh manhunt to track down and arrest the injured suspect.
Police also recovered the stolen items and moved the bodies of the deceased to the Transmara West Sub-County Hospital mortuary pending identification and further investigations.
Lobolia noted that the influx of gold mining activities in the region has contributed to an increase in criminal activities, including armed robberies, as criminals target miners and businesses operating within the area.
He assured residents that police officers, together with intelligence teams, are conducting continuous security operations aimed at dismantling criminal gangs and enhancing safety across the sub-county.
Residents have meanwhile called for increased police patrols and deployment of more security personnel, saying the growing insecurity is threatening businesses and the livelihoods of local communities.
By Emmanuel Serem and Emily Kadzo
