Robbery Suspect Arrested, AK-47 Recovered in Turkana Amid Rising Crime
Lokichar, Turkana County – April 10, 2025
A 40-year-old man suspected of a string of robberies was arrested in Lokichar Township, Turkana County, following a tip-off from the public. During the operation, police recovered an AK-47 rifle, a magazine, seven rounds of ammunition, multiple motorcycle frames, a car wash pressure pump, a solar inverter, and a white Tata double cab.
The suspect led officers to his residence in Kapese Village, where the search yielded the items. He is expected to plead to charges of robbery with violence as investigations continue to determine his involvement in other crimes.
The arrest comes amid rising violent robberies in the area, with authorities intensifying patrols and security operations to curb the trend.
In a related development, gunmen raided villages in Suguta Marmar, Samburu County, stealing 41 goats after firing into the air at the Longewan cattle dip field. Despite a major hunt by police and the Anti-Stock Theft Unit, the suspects have not been apprehended.
The incident falls under Operation Maliza Uhalifu (OMU) Phase Two, launched by Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen two weeks ago. OMU Two, headquartered in Kirimon, Laikipia County, targets emerging crimes in Samburu, Laikipia, Isiolo, and parts of Meru.
This joint operation between the National Police Service (NPS) and Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) aims to restore security in Kenya’s northern frontier, covering Turkana, West Pokot, Baringo, Laikipia, Samburu, and Elgeyo Marakwet counties. Operations will integrate technology, with plans underway to acquire advanced modern equipment.