A suspected robber was fatally shot by police during an attempted mugging in Nairobi’s Eastleigh neighborhood. Officers recovered a homemade firearm at the scene.

The suspect, along with an accomplice, was allegedly targeting pedestrians on Muratina Road early Wednesday, January 1. They reportedly attacked a pedestrian heading to Al-Hidaya Mosque for prayers along Jam Street, robbing them of their mobile phone at gunpoint.

The victim’s cries for help alerted patrolling officers, who pursued the suspects. One suspect was shot dead, while the accomplice escaped with injuries and the stolen phone. The recovered firearm was confirmed to be functional.

The deceased’s body has been taken to the mortuary for identification and further procedures. Police have intensified patrols across Nairobi to counter a predicted surge in armed robberies as schools reopen.

In a separate incident in Dandora, two suspects narrowly survived mob justice after attempting to rob a pedestrian. On New Year’s Day around 10 a.m., the suspects tried to steal a mobile phone but were attacked by an angry crowd using stones and sticks.

Police intervened, rescuing the severely injured suspects and taking them to the hospital. Authorities reiterated their stance against mob justice, urging the public to hand over suspects to law enforcement for proper legal action.

Former Aldai MP Cornelly Serem reveals his opulent village residence, benefiting from a lucrative government position granted by Ruto.

Serem celebrated his birthday, wedding anniversary, and the unveiling of his multi-million-shilling home in Kapseret with a vibrant ceremony attended by family, friends, and fellow politicians.

Kapseret MP Oscar Sudi was among the guests and shared on social media, “I was honored to join my friend, former Aldai MP and Chairperson of the Agriculture and Food Authority (AFA) Cornelly Serem, and his family as they celebrated his birthday, silver wedding anniversary, and the unveiling of his residence at Chepkatet in Kapseret.

It was a truly inspiring sight, showcasing the rewards of a lifetime of dedicated service and hard work. ”

Kiplagat’s family has revealed that their son, who was arrested in March 2024 on allegations of chicken theft, was later found innocent and released after investigations cleared him.

Despite his exoneration, the family alleges that Kiplagat was assaulted by a KDF officer and a GSU officer.

“On the night of December 22, government officers brutally attacked him. The next day, I found him in pain, and he told me he had been beaten by a GSU and KDF officer,” a family member recounted.

The assault has left Kiplagat permanently disabled, prompting his family to demand government intervention in seeking justice.

“My brother is now paralyzed and fully dependent on us. We appeal to the government to help us find justice,” his sister said.

Kiplagat’s case underscores a troubling trend of excessive force used by law enforcement, which has drawn increasing criticism in Kenya.

President William Ruto recently addressed concerns about police conduct during the launch of the National Police Service and Prisons Service strategic plans for 2023-2027 on December 13. He urged officers to exercise restraint and uphold the rule of law while fostering trust with citizens.

“Kenyans must witness a shift in policing—from practices marked by extrajudicial actions and impunity to approaches centered on due process and legal standards,” Ruto stated.

The President assured support for lawful police actions but called on citizens to maintain calm and cooperation when engaging with officers.

Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga, in his New Year message, called on Kenyans to take charge of shaping the nation’s future.

Reflecting on the challenges carried over from 2024, Raila urged citizens to decide the course they wish to chart as a country.

“As we step into 2025, many of the difficulties from 2024 remain with us,” he shared on X. “It’s up to us as Kenyans to choose: do we advance into the new year divided and resentful, or do we unite, engage in dialogue, and work towards a shared solution that preserves our nation and sets an example for the African continent? The choice is entirely ours.”

Raila also acknowledged the resilience Kenyans demonstrated throughout 2024, highlighting their commitment to unity despite numerous hurdles.

“While 2024 was both challenging and eventful, it showcased our strength to endure crises and rebuild as a nation,” he remarked.

His message comes as Raila prepares for his candidacy for the African Union Commission chair, with the election scheduled for February.