Police in Kisumu Arrest Notorious Robbery Suspect, Recover AK-47 Rifle
Police in Kisumu have made a significant breakthrough in the fight against violent crime with the arrest of a suspected ringleader of a notorious criminal gang and the recovery of a high-powered firearm. The suspect, identified as 32-year-old John Omondi, was apprehended in a dramatic night-time operation in the Nyalenda informal settlement following a tip-off from members of the public. The arrest led to the discovery of a fully loaded AK-47 rifle, believed to have been used in a series of recent armed robberies and carjackings that have plagued the lakeside city.
The operation was conducted by a specialized unit from the Kisumu Central Police Station in collaboration with local community policing volunteers. Acting on intelligence that the suspect was planning another robbery, officers surrounded a makeshift structure where he was hiding. The suspect was highly uncooperative and attempted to resist arrest, but our officers subdued him and conducted a thorough search of the premises. The rifle was found concealed in a false compartment under the bed, with two magazines containing 58 rounds of ammunition, said Kisumu County Police Commander, Samuel Anampiu. The recovery is considered a major win for security agencies who have been pursuing the gang for months.
Residents of Nyalenda and surrounding areas have expressed relief at the arrest, citing a recent wave of violent muggings and business break-ins. We have been living in fear, especially at night. These criminals were becoming bolder, even attacking people in their homes. We are grateful to the police for this action, stated a local community leader, Mary Atieno. The police have commended the public for their cooperation, emphasizing that the successful operation was a direct result of the strong partnership between the community and the security forces.
The suspect is currently in police custody and is expected to be charged with multiple counts, including being in possession of a prohibited firearm and robbery with violence. Police investigations are ongoing to apprehend his accomplices and establish the source of the firearm. This arrest sends a strong message to criminal elements that Kisumu is not a safe haven for them. We will continue with such targeted operations to ensure the safety and security of all residents, Commander Anampiu added, urging the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities.