Three police officers sustained injuries during a security operation aimed at apprehending a gang of robbers in Mlolongo, Machakos County, on Thursday.
According to a police report obtained by a tv station, the incident unfolded when the officers were on patrol near Cooperative Bank in Mlolongo. They encountered a group of four individuals attacking a woman.
In an attempt to flee in a getaway vehicle, three of the suspects engaged in a confrontation with the police officers, resulting in injuries to the law enforcement personnel.
“Police Constable Okari suffered a swollen right eye, a cut on the side of the head, and a dislocated right hand. Police Constable Kyalo sustained a swollen right leg near the knee, while Police Constable Ndung’u reported chest pains,” stated the police report.
The getaway car’s original license plates were allegedly altered using stickers, changing the registration from KDH 630Y to KDA 730F.
Upon apprehension, the accused individuals identified as John Maina (27), Alex Mutinda Mutuku (30), and Julius Owino Okoth (26) were found in possession of various items, including digit and letter stickers for altering number plates, a set of assorted keys, ten pieces of master keys accompanied by a grinding file for opening locks, eight mobile phones of different models, three crowbars, one hook, and a machete.
The victim of the robbery lost several belongings, including a mobile phone, a wristwatch, and a purse containing identification documents, ATM cards, and health insurance cards, which are yet to be recovered.
The suspects are slated to be arraigned in court on charges of robbery with violence, assaulting police officers, resisting arrest, and possession of suspected stolen property.
Authorities continue to urge vigilance and cooperation from residents in combating crime in the area.