Security forces in Garissa County, Kenya, arrested two suspected criminals and recovered an AK-47 rifle along with several rounds of ammunition on Saturday. The arrests took place in Bula Burburis, Galbet ward, just outside Garissa town, following a tip-off from concerned members of the public.
The swift response from law enforcement was praised by local authorities. Garissa Sub-County Police Commander Samwel Boit, speaking at a press briefing in the Burburis area, confirmed the operation’s success. The police apprehended two individuals, who were suspected of orchestrating criminal activities in the region, and a third person believed to be harboring them.
Boit disclosed that, in addition to the firearm, police found two safes, which they suspect were stolen during a recent bank heist. A white vehicle, believed to be used by the suspects for transportation during their criminal activities, was also impounded from the compound where the suspects were arrested.
“We are happy to report that today we made a big breakthrough in the fight against criminals and gangs who have been causing insecurity and terrorizing the public within Bula Madina, Bula Burburis, and the surrounding areas,” Boit said during the press conference.
Public Collaboration
The police commander emphasized the role of the public in the success of the operation, commending the timely tip-off that led security officers to the suspects’ hideout. “We got intelligence information and we mounted a special operation team comprising officers from the Kenya Police Service, Administration Police, and DCI personnel, which led us to the site,” Boit explained.
The arrest marks a significant achievement in curbing the growing trend of insecurity in Garissa. The region, particularly areas like Bula Burburis and Bula Madina, has been grappling with increased cases of armed robberies, violence, and criminal gang activities, causing alarm among residents.
Ongoing Investigations and Court Processing
Following the arrests, Boit assured that the suspects would be processed and presented in court once investigations are completed. While the two primary suspects are now in police custody, the investigation will continue to determine the full extent of their criminal network and activities.
The commander lauded the combined efforts of various security units involved in the operation, highlighting the importance of cooperation and coordination in maintaining law and order. “I want to appreciate my fellow officers for a well-planned and conducted operation. They sacrificed their time and effort, and now we can see the fruits. We have also intensified patrols as well as the collection of intelligence,” he added.
Community Assured of Safety
Boit extended his gratitude to the local community for volunteering information that aided the arrests, emphasizing that such information would always be treated with confidentiality. He urged the public to continue cooperating with the authorities and assured them that their safety was a top priority for law enforcement.
“The public should go about their business confidently, knowing that their safety is guaranteed,” Boit said, encouraging residents to maintain communication with security officers to ensure that future threats to their safety can be swiftly addressed.
Increased Vigilance and Future Operations
Garissa Deputy County Commissioner Thomas Bett, who accompanied Boit during the press briefing, echoed the sentiment of collaboration between the public and the security forces. He praised the success of the operation and indicated that such efforts would continue in other settlements within Garissa.
Bett acknowledged that the criminal gang involved is believed to be part of a larger group, and authorities will not relent until all members are apprehended. “I can assure you that we will go for these criminals until we have arrested all of them. We will not rest until Garissa town and its environs are safe and secure for all,” Bett stated.
He affirmed that security forces have intensified their surveillance and patrols, ensuring that the entire region is covered in the ongoing crackdown against crime.
The arrests are seen as a major step forward in restoring peace and security in Garissa County, a region that has experienced sporadic waves of insecurity in recent months. Both local residents and security forces are optimistic that with continued public cooperation, further breakthroughs will be achieved in the fight against crime.
