Matungulu OCPD Peter Gichohi addressing the Media at Joska, Kangundo. Photo by Fredrick Kioko. 
By Fredrick Kioko
A suspected armed robber linked to a series of violent robberies, including a recent incident at a hotel in Westlands, Nairobi, was shot dead by police during an operation at Joska Shopping Centre in Matungulu Sub-County, Machakos County.
The operation was conducted jointly by officers from the Matungulu Police Station and the Criminal Investigations Department (CID).
Matungulu OCPD Peter Gichohi confirmed the incident, identifying the deceased as Vincent Ochieng. He said the suspect had been on the police's radar for some time over his alleged involvement in a string of robberies.
According to Gichohi, Ochieng is believed to have been using Joska as a hideout after carrying out criminal activities in Nairobi, making it difficult for investigators to trace him.
"He would allegedly commit robberies in Nairobi and retreat to Joska, where he blended in with residents and avoided suspicion," said the OCPD.
Police recovered a pistol, four live rounds of ammunition and two spent cartridges from the scene. Gichohi said detectives are pursuing other suspects believed to be part of the same criminal network.
The body of the deceased was moved to Kangundo Level 4 Hospital Mortuary pending further investigations.
Residents expressed shock following the incident, describing the suspect as a quiet and friendly neighbour.
Mary Kaluki, who lives in the same apartment block, said security officers had instructed residents to remain indoors moments before gunfire erupted.
"We saw several officers moving around the building before everyone was ordered to stay inside. We later heard gunshots," she said.
Kaluki said Ochieng had lived in the area for some time and had never attracted suspicion.
"He was a good neighbour. None of us knew what he did for a living," she added.
She further revealed that the suspect was married and had one child, noting that his wife and child reportedly fled the premises following the incident.
Police have launched investigations as efforts continue to track down the remaining suspects believed to be connected to the robbery syndicate.
