Police detectives in Matungulu, Machakos County, fatally shot a suspected gangster during a shootout and recovered an AK-47 rifle linked to a 2025 robbery in Mavoko.
Shootout in Matungulu
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the incident occurred in the Mashokani area along the Koma-Kenol Highway. Acting on actionable intelligence, detectives intercepted a Toyota Harrier carrying suspects believed to be terrorizing the locality.
The suspects opened fire when flagged down, prompting officers to return fire. One suspect, armed with an AK-47, was killed, while another armed with a pistol escaped. A search for the fleeing suspect is ongoing.
Recovered Firearm Linked to Previous Robbery
The recovered AK-47 was loaded with 11 rounds of 7.62×39mm ammunition. Preliminary investigations confirmed it was the same weapon stolen from an Administration Police officer during a violent robbery in Mavoko in November 2025.
During that earlier attack, three armed men assaulted the officer guarding a residence in Athi River, shooting him in the chest and legs before fleeing with the rifle, which had 30 rounds, and the officer’s mobile phone.
Additional Items Seized
Police also recovered eight mobile phones, four balaclavas, crowbars, and torches from the vehicle. Crime scene investigators processed the scene, and the deceased suspect’s body was taken to Kangundo Level 4 Hospital mortuary pending autopsy.
Ongoing Investigations
This recovery is part of intensified efforts by security agencies to track firearms stolen from police officers and determine their involvement in subsequent crimes.
