Nairobi, May 24, 2024 — In a dramatic turn of events, three suspects were shot dead by police officers in South B on Thursday evening after snatching a woman’s phone. The incident, which unfolded near the bustling shopping area, has left residents in shock and raised questions about security and law enforcement methods in the city.
According to eyewitnesses, the suspects, believed to be in their early twenties, accosted a woman as she was walking home. They grabbed her phone and attempted to flee the scene on foot. The woman’s screams alerted nearby pedestrians, who quickly called for help.
Within minutes, a police patrol vehicle responding to the distress call arrived at the scene. Officers reportedly ordered the suspects to surrender, but they allegedly ignored the commands and attempted to escape, leading to a brief but intense chase. The situation escalated rapidly when, according to police reports, one of the suspects brandished a firearm, prompting the officers to open fire.
The three suspects were pronounced dead at the scene. The woman, though shaken, was unharmed and her phone was recovered. The area was cordoned off as police conducted a thorough investigation, collecting evidence and taking statements from witnesses.
In a statement, Nairobi County Police Commander, Philip Ndolo, defended the actions of the officers, citing the need to protect the public and the imminent threat posed by the armed suspects. “Our officers acted in the best interest of public safety. The suspects were armed and posed a significant danger. While it is regrettable that lives were lost, the priority was to ensure the safety of the community,” he said.
The incident has sparked mixed reactions among residents and human rights activists. Some locals expressed relief, appreciating the swift response of the police in a neighborhood that has seen a rise in petty crime in recent months. Others, however, raised concerns about the use of lethal force and the potential for abuse of power by law enforcement.
Human rights organizations have called for a thorough and transparent investigation into the incident. “While we acknowledge the challenges faced by police in dealing with crime, it is crucial that the use of force is proportionate and justified,” said Amnesty International Kenya in a statement. “Every incident of this nature must be scrutinized to ensure accountability and to prevent unwarranted loss of life.”
This incident comes amid ongoing discussions about police reforms in Kenya, with calls for better training, improved community policing, and the implementation of body cameras to enhance transparency and accountability in law enforcement operations.
