Sololo: The enlisting of national police reservists (NPR) to complement police work is yielding results after the unit assisted in capturing a bhang haul valued at Sh10.5 million at Ellibor in Sololo sub-county, Marsabit County. Sololo Deputy County Commissioner Edward Goko reported to Kenya News Agency (KNA) that the reservists also managed to arrest one suspect, who is currently aiding police investigations, following his apprehension with over 350 kilograms of the narcotic drug.
According to Kenya News Agency, Mr. Goko stated that the reservists, who were recently enlisted to support law enforcement, intercepted a Toyota Land Cruiser vehicle suspected of transporting contraband goods smuggled from a neighboring country. The Deputy County Commissioner added that there were two occupants in the vehicle who refused to stop when signaled and instead opened fire at the reservists.
A fierce gun battle followed, during which the armed suspects were overpowered and managed to escape into the thickets, leaving behind the driver, who sustained a gunshot wound on the right leg. "The NPRs are doing a commendable job as per the training they received," said Mr. Goko, noting that the police took the suspect, a Kenyan, into custody and impounded the vehicle, registration number KCC 555V.
Detectives, according to the Deputy County Commissioner, have launched a manhunt for the runaway suspect involved in the early morning incident. The narcotic drug was packed in 72 bales of six kilograms each, transported in 12 sacks. The government has recently intensified surveillance and patrols along the porous border with Ethiopia as efforts are increased to eliminate criminal activities and illegal trade, including human trafficking.
The administrator mentioned that the injured suspect has been taken to the hospital, where he is receiving treatment under tight security. The suspect will be processed for court arraignment once he recovers. According to the Deputy County Commissioner, deploying additional NPRs could be beneficial in enhancing the fight against crime and the protection of property.