A 20-year-old man has been arrested in connection with a string of violent armed robberies in Maralal town, Samburu County. The suspect, identified as Christopher Ayok Lemarkele, was apprehended after a tip-off that linked him to a series of criminal activities targeting local businesses.
Investigations revealed that Lemarkele and an accomplice were behind several daring incidents in the area, the most recent being an attack on a local shop. Posing as customers, the two men entered the premises before drawing a firearm and pointing it at the cashier. The weapon used was identified as an AK-47 rifle, a high-powered assault weapon that has been frequently associated with violent crimes in the region.
During the ordeal, the cashier bravely attempted to deflect the weapon. In the struggle, a shot was fired, grazing her left breast and causing a painful soft tissue injury. Fortunately, she was quickly rushed to Samburu County Referral Hospital, where she received medical attention and was discharged in stable condition.
After the shooting, the suspects managed to escape with Ksh. 50,000 in cash. The robbery triggered an intense manhunt by detectives, leading to Lemarkele’s arrest. His capture marks a significant breakthrough in efforts to curb rising insecurity and armed banditry incidents that have left many residents and business owners living in fear.
Items recovered during the arrest included a green jungle hat, a smoke jacket, a jungle green jacket, and a jungle belt. Authorities believe these items were used during the robberies to disguise the suspect’s identity and evade recognition.
Lemarkele is currently in custody awaiting arraignment in court, where he will face multiple charges related to armed robbery, attempted murder, and illegal possession of a firearm. Meanwhile, detectives have intensified efforts to track down his accomplice, who is still at large.
The arrest has been welcomed by residents of Maralal, who expressed relief that one of the suspects behind the spate of robberies has finally been apprehended. Security agencies have urged the public to remain vigilant and continue providing information that could help in the ongoing manhunt.
Authorities reiterated their commitment to eliminating armed criminal groups and ensuring the safety of communities in Samburu and beyond
