The National Police Service (NPS) has launched investigations into a surge of serious crimes, including murder, arson, robbery with violence, and school fires reported in the Rift Valley and Central regions of Kenya. The alarming increase in these incidents has raised concerns among residents and authorities alike, prompting a comprehensive response from the NPS.
Crime Incidents in the Rift Valley Region
The Rift Valley region has seen a variety of criminal activities over recent weeks. One of the most disturbing cases involves a murder in Ndundori, Nakuru North, where decomposing body parts of a man who had been reported missing were found in a disused water source. The discovery has shocked the local community, and police are working diligently to identify the perpetrators and bring them to justice.
Arson attacks have also been reported, with one notable incident in Chemelil where a sugarcane farm was set ablaze. Two suspects have been arrested in connection with the fire, which has caused significant damage to the farm. The motive behind the arson is still under investigation, but authorities suspect it may be linked to local disputes.
In addition, the Rift Valley has witnessed a troubling trend of school fires, with incidents reported at Irbaan Primary School and Naivasha High School, where dormitories were completely razed. Fortunately, no casualties were reported in these fires, but the loss of property and disruption of students’ education have raised alarms. The police are conducting thorough investigations to determine whether these fires were accidental or deliberate acts of arson.
Robbery with violence has also been a concern, particularly in Nandi Central. Police have launched investigations into a robbery at Kiborgok Girls and Kiborgok Mixed schools in Kaimosi, where suspects broke into school offices and stole Ksh 40,000 along with other valuables. The police are pursuing leads to apprehend the suspects involved in this violent crime.
Crime Incidents in the Central Region
The Central region has not been spared from the recent wave of crime. Several high school boys from Mukurweini have been arrested for interrogation following an attempted arson at their school. The quick response by authorities prevented a potential disaster, but the incident highlights the growing issue of student unrest and delinquency.
In the Eastern region, which falls under the broader Central police jurisdiction, the NPS is investigating a series of serious incidents, including the death of a police officer from Runyenjes Police Station. The circumstances surrounding the officer’s death remain unclear, but the investigation is ongoing.
Additionally, the police are probing a suicide case in Embu, adding to the list of distressing events in the region. School fires have also been reported in Wami Boys High School and Katulani Mixed Secondary School. At Kalimani Mixed Secondary School, students’ unrest led to malicious damage of property, further straining the efforts of the police and school authorities to maintain order.
NPS Response and Public Safety Measures
The NPS has reassured the public that all reported incidents are being thoroughly investigated, with additional measures being put in place to prevent future occurrences. Police presence has been increased in affected areas, and the NPS is urging the community to cooperate with law enforcement by providing any information that could assist in the investigations.
Inspector General of Police Japhet Koome has called for calm and assured residents that the police are committed to bringing the perpetrators to justice. “We take these incidents seriously and are working around the clock to ensure that those responsible are held accountable. We also appeal to the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities to the nearest police station,” said Koome.
As investigations continue, the NPS is also focusing on community engagement and preventive measures, including counseling services in schools and public awareness campaigns to address the root causes of these crimes. The police service has stressed the importance of collaboration between law enforcement, schools, parents, and the wider community to foster a safer environment for all.
The recent spate of crimes in the Rift Valley and Central regions underscores the need for increased vigilance and proactive measures to safeguard the community. The NPS remains dedicated to restoring peace and security in these regions as they work tirelessly to solve these cases and prevent further incidents.
