Police in Nairobi fatally shot a 38-year-old man in Eastleigh after he allegedly stole a mobile phone and confronted officers while armed.
The incident occurred along 1st Avenue, where the suspect reportedly snatched a Samsung A12 phone valued at Sh16,000 from a resident seated outside a shop. The victim pursued the suspect, who then brandished a Somali sword, threatening both the phone owner and bystanders attempting to intervene.
The suspect's actions caused panic and drew a crowd as he moved through the neighbourhood. Members of the public joined the pursuit, throwing stones at him until he reached the Air Base Police Post, where on-duty officers confronted him.
According to police, the suspect ignored two warning shots fired into the air and advanced towards the officers, who then opened fire. The suspect sustained fatal injuries and later died.
Authorities recovered the stolen Samsung A12 phone, the Somali sword, and a kitchen knife from the scene. Crime scene investigators documented the evidence as part of the ongoing investigation. The suspect's body was taken to Nairobi Funeral Home for a post-mortem examination.
Increased Police Operations Targeting Phone Theft
Nairobi Police Commander Issa Mohamud stated that security agencies have intensified efforts citywide to combat mobile phone theft, citing a rise in such cases.
