A 24-year-old trader was fatally shot by armed robbers in Nakuru’s Upper Hill Estate, Soilo area, amid rising concerns over a surge in violent crime across the county.
The victim, identified as Elias Mambili, was attacked by three men at his shop on the night of May 31. During the robbery, he sustained a gunshot wound to the abdomen and later succumbed to his injuries while being rushed to hospital. Mambili’s death marks the fourth fatal shooting reported in Nakuru within the past two weeks, highlighting a growing wave of insecurity in the region.
Residents described the brutal nature of the attack. One local, who witnessed the incident, recounted how the assailants beat and slashed the young trader with machetes before shooting him. She explained that the attack began around 8 pm, with loud noises drawing attention from nearby businesses. On stepping outside, she saw two of the attackers assaulting Elias inside the shop. They dragged him outside, continued to beat him, and slashed his back with machetes. Out of fear, she closed her salon’s door and windows. Moments later, a gunshot rang out, silencing Mambili’s screams.
Another eyewitness added that the attackers were well-armed and coordinated. Two carried machetes, while the third wielded what was believed to be an AK-47 rifle. After shooting Mambili, the assailants calmly walked to a waiting motorbike parked less than 100 meters away and fled the scene. The robbers reportedly stole around Ksh 200,000 before escaping.
The incident is the latest in a troubling pattern of attacks that have occurred in other parts of Nakuru, including Pipeline, Ndekendimo, Mwariki, and Ngata. These violent episodes have left residents terrified and demanding swift government action.
Locals are now urging authorities to enhance security in their neighborhoods. One resident called for immediate intervention, pleading for a visible security presence that can offer timely assistance during emergencies. The fear among community members has intensified, with many expressing worry about venturing outside after dark.
Despite multiple incidents, no suspects have been apprehended in connection with the recent wave of violence. The lack of arrests has further eroded public confidence in the police response and fueled growing frustration among residents.
Authorities have acknowledged the severity of the situation. A major crackdown is reportedly underway, with plans to intensify patrols and reinforce law enforcement presence in the affected areas. Security agencies have vowed to track down the perpetrators and dismantle the criminal networks believed to be behind the attacks.
For now, however, the community remains on edge, mourning the loss of yet another young life and hoping that justice will be served. The recent spike in violent crime has exposed serious gaps in local security and heightened calls for a long-term solution to restore safety in Nakuru.
