Tension gripped parts of Nairobi on Thursday morning after a suspected gang leader was shot dead in Dandora, just hours before President William Ruto was expected to attend Labour Day celebrations in Vihiga County.
According to police reports, the suspect, believed to be behind a series of robberies and violent attacks in the area, was gunned down during a confrontation with security officers. Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), acting on a tip-off from members of the public, tracked the man to a hideout within Dandora Phase 4.
Eyewitnesses said heavily armed officers surrounded the area at dawn. A shootout followed after the suspect allegedly tried to escape while firing at the officers. He was shot several times and died on the spot. No officer was injured during the incident.
Residents who gathered at the scene expressed mixed reactions. Some said they were relieved, claiming the man had been terrorizing the community for months. Others raised concerns about the increasing cases of violent crime in the area, calling on the government to strengthen security measures.
Police recovered a firearm and several rounds of ammunition believed to have been used in previous crimes. Authorities said investigations are ongoing to identify other members of the gang and dismantle the network.
The incident comes at a time when security agencies across the country are on high alert ahead of Labour Day celebrations. President Ruto is expected to lead national celebrations in Vihiga, where thousands of workers and leaders are set to gather.
Security officials have assured the public that adequate measures have been put in place to ensure safety during the celebrations. Roadblocks, patrols, and surveillance have been increased in major towns and along key routes.
Interior Ministry officials have urged Kenyans to remain calm and cooperate with security agencies by reporting any suspicious activities. They emphasized that public safety remains a top priority, especially during national events.
As the country marks Labour Day, the government continues to face pressure to address insecurity in urban areas, with many citizens calling for long-term solutions to crime and unemployment.