In Turkana County, authorities have reported the demise of three individuals suspected of banditry following an altercation with the police force.
The National Police Service (NPS) disclosed that the incident occurred on Saturday during a confrontation between law enforcement officers and the alleged bandits.
“A shootout between NPS Officers from Loima and suspected bandits at Kangalita in Kalemnyang left three of the suspects fatally wounded,” stated the police.
The deceased suspects have been identified as Simon Egielan Lopongorei, aged 37, Lokucha Ngeruk, also known as “sharpshooter” at 39 years old, and their 21-year-old accomplice Tiya Logumo.
Lopongorei, described by authorities as a notorious gang leader, was implicated in various criminal activities, including violent offenses, gang rape, and alleged death threats. Police records indicate three pending court cases against him related to these crimes.
“He has been under investigation for a series of unresolved violent crimes, including highway robberies, stock theft, and possession of illicit firearms for hire within Loima Sub-County,” the police stated.
Ngeruk, identified as Lopongorei’s associate, was allegedly involved in the killing of a police officer in Kangalita three years prior.
Additionally, he was reportedly responsible for an attack on the Lorugum Officer Commanding Station (OCS) on December 28, 2023, resulting in injuries to the officer on duty.
During the encounter, authorities seized an AK-47 rifle, a loaded magazine containing three rounds of ammunition, and spent cartridges from the suspects.
The bodies of the deceased were transported to Lodwar County Referral Hospital as investigations into the incident continue.
