Security has been beefed up in Narok town and its environs following a series of killings reported in the recent past.
Speaking in a Baraza held at Ole Koonyo recreation grounds in Narok town, Narok County Commissioner, Kipkech Lotiatia, said 52 people, suspected to be engaging in criminal activities in the town had been arrested and awaiting to be arraigned in court.
Lotiatia asked the residents to be vigilant and report suspicious persons to authorities, saying most of the criminals hide in the community.
He warned those operating unlicenced wine and spirit shops and bars, that they risked being arrested and prosecuted according to the law.
“We have learnt that most of these criminals hide in bars and restaurants. Those who own such premises, should be very alert and report suspicious people to relevant authorities,” he said.
Commissioner Lotiatia was accompanied by the County Security Team, Nyumba Kumi representatives, youth representatives, public health officials and representatives from the County Government.
The Commissioner reminded the residents that security is the responsibility of each and every resident, asking them not to hide criminals even if they were their close relatives.
Narok Peace Committee Chairman, Joseph Kireu, reiterated the deprecating security and called for enhanced police patrols during the night, saying many people have been killed near Ole Koonyo Forest.
He called on the residents to know their neighbours and identify any stranger who joins them, to know his intention and what business he has in town.
The meeting followed an incident where a 38-year-old woman, who was a vegetable vendor, was killed while at her business premises near Oltalet Mall in Narok town.
Narok county police commander, Riko Ngare, said investigations are ongoing to arrest the murder suspect.
He said during the operations, the officers came across one suspect who was carrying goods packed in carrier bags and when he was asked to stop, he attacked the police officer with an arrow injuring the officer’s left leg below the knee.
The Officer fired back but the suspect escaped leaving behind seven arrows and the carrier bags with vegetables, which were all recovered as exhibits and which are suspected to have been stolen from the deceased.
Three other incidents of mysterious killings were reported in July 2024, raising concern over the recent trend of insecurity.