Security agencies in Matungulu Sub-county gunned down a suspected gangster and recovered an AK-47 assault rifle during a dramatic shootout at the Masokani shopping centre along the Kenol-Koma road on Friday evening.
Addressing the media at the scene of the incident, Matungulu Sub-County Police Commander, Peter Gichohi said one gangster managed to escape on foot with gunshot wounds, leaving behind the Toyota Harrier they were driving before the deadly confrontation with law enforcement.
He said the suspected criminals, who were being trailed by security officers, were ordered to surrender, but they instead opened fire on the police, triggering a gun battle.
"Acting on actionable intelligence, police officers pursued notorious criminals operating in the area. When they reached this point, the suspects—who were driving a Toyota Harrier—were ordered to stop, but they resisted," the police boss added.
Mr Gichohi revealed that the recovered AK-47 firearm was identified as the one stolen from a police officer in Mavoko municipality in November 2025.
"A shootout broke out between officers and suspects, leaving one armed thug dead. The recovered AK-47 rifle was stolen from a police officer in Mavoko last year," the police boss said.
He asked the public to report anyone with gunshot wounds who seeks medical help or shelter right away saying that detectives have launched a manhunt for the suspected accomplice who escaped during the exchange of gunfire.
"We appeal to the public and medical facilities to report anyone seeking treatment for bullet wounds. As police officers, we will not relent in the fight against criminals, as we need to isolate them from law-abiding citizens," he added.
The police boss said detectives also recovered several mobile phones and other crude weapons from the scene.
He said detectives are also investigating the wider network linked to the gang as they seek to determine the source and use of firearms and other items recovered from the vehicle.
The recovered vehicle was towed to KBC Police station while the body of the slain suspect was moved to Kangundo Hospital mortuary.
