Five suspected robbers were lynched by an angry mob in Koitaburot, Soin Sigowet for allegedly stealing Ksh.1.1 million from a Sacco shortly after he withdrew the money from a bank in Muhoroni.
According to police, the gang followed the victim before ambushing him and attempted to escape along the West Valley Sugar Road.
The five-member gang’s escape plan was thwarted after they robbed the Sacco treasurer in Kericho County, as local residents who became aware of the situation responded quickly.
Jesse Kiprotich, a Koitaburot resident, stated: “This incident occurred at four o’clock in the afternoon when we heard bullets coming out from the tires.”
Police officers who arrived at the scene late recovered a toy pistol and counterfeit vehicle registration plates believed to have been used by the robbers. Police had been monitoring the gang for several weeks.
“This is a toy pistol that resembles a revolver, it’s plastic that they used…we also have a walkie-talkie here, it will be investigated to determine its source, this is what they used to intimidate residents,” said Lawrence Kisini, sub-county Police Commander for Soin Sigowet.
The incident has triggered varied reactions, with some residents expressing concerns about the increasing cases of mob justice.
“We are advising young people not to attempt such acts…everyone has seen how poorly they were treated,” stated Moses Rono, another Koitaburot resident.
Commander Kisini: “I thank the residents for cooperating with the police, in terms of security, we say that safety begins with you.”
The bodies of the five suspects are being kept at the Kericho County Hospital Mortuary.