Security officers in Vihiga County are investigating an early morning robbery attack at a supermarket that left one person dead and another one nursing serious injuries at Vihiga County Referral hospital
Speaking to Kenya News Agency (KNA), the Vihiga County Police Commander (CPC), Hassan Barua confirmed the incident occurred Tuesday about 4.30am at Imara Supermarket, Chavakali trading centre in Sabatia Sub County.
“Unknown number of armed gang invaded Imara Supermarket and assaulted two watchmen before they gained entry to the premise where they stole goods whose value was yet to be established,” said Barua.
According to the CPC, the deceased aged 76 years old who was manning the premise from the front succumbed on the spot to serious head injuries.
He further reported the thugs broke the hind door of the supermarket.
“Preliminary investigations indicate the armed robbers cut the victims using sharp objects,” added Barua.
Police officers on patrol rushed to the scene and removed the body and the injured watchman, 47 years, to the Mbale hospital. “The injured watchman is fairly out of danger,” according CPC.
Following the tragic incident, the county police boss has issued a stern warning to individuals planning to engage in criminal activities, especially during this December holiday season.
“We have deployed enough security officers who are on high alert in all parts of the county,” he disclosed.
Regretting Tuesday’s incident, Barua revealed his unit was working closely with members of Nyumba Kumi and Community Policing outfits in efforts to enhance security during this festive season.
“We have also lined up a series of public barazas aimed at creating awareness among the locals on security issues,” he added.
Speaking to KNA separately, a watchman at the market who sought anonymity, blamed the tragic death of their colleague on security lapses in the area. “The market is dimly lit in the night,” he pointed out.
He also attributed criminal incidents to what he described as ballooning groups of idling youths in the area.
“Chavakali market is usually characterised by many groups of idle youths, especially in the evenings,” the watchmen observed and appealed to the security department to check on the same.
By Maurice Aluda
