A 20-year-old man has been arrested in Maralal, Samburu County, in connection with a series of violent robberies that have recently unsettled the town and its surroundings.
In a statement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) revealed that detectives, acting on intelligence leads, trailed and apprehended the suspect, identified as Lemarkele, who had allegedly been terrorizing residents with armed attacks.
According to investigators, Lemarkele—armed with an AK-47 rifle and operating with an accomplice who is still on the run—recently staged a robbery at a local shop in Maralal.
Violent Robbery Suspect, Aged 20, Arrested in Maralal, Samburu County. Photo: Courtesy.
Disguised as an ordinary customer, he reportedly gained entry before turning violent and attempting to rob the premises, extending a reign of fear that authorities say had gone unchecked for weeks.
The situation quickly turned deadly when the duo drew firearms, aiming them directly at the cashier.
In a moment of courage, the cashier managed to push the weapon away, but not before Lemarkele fired a shot that grazed her left breast, inflicting a painful soft tissue injury.
The injured person was rushed to Samburu County Referral Hospital, where she received treatment and was later discharged in stable condition.
DCI disclosed that the assailants stole Sh50,000 before a manhunt led to the arrest of Lemarkele at his hideout.
Detectives recovered items linked to the robbery, including jungle gear.
He remains in custody awaiting trial as the search for his accomplice continues.
