A family traveling from Bomet to Nairobi became the victims of a vicious attack along the Southern Bypass late Thursday, when they were ambushed by a gang of armed robbers after their vehicle was forced off the road.
The alarming incident occurred when the family encountered illegal roadblocks created by the gang, which strategically placed stones on the roadway.
As the family’s vehicle hit the obstruction, it suffered two punctured tires, forcing them to pull over to address the situation. Unbeknownst to them, a group of panga-wielding assailants lay in wait, ready to strike.
Prudence Chepng’eno, the 22-year-old sister who was driving the vehicle, suffered a serious cut on her forehead and sustained a fracture during the chaos.
Her two brothers, ages 20 and 22, were also seriously injured; one sustained deep cuts to his neck, while the other suffered injuries to his forehead, neck, and left ear. A third sibling endured multiple injuries, including a severe cut to the left cheek and a fractured leg.
Witnesses report that Prudence lost control of the vehicle after the car in front swerved to avoid the stones, inadvertently leading to the family striking the obstruction. In the confusion, the robbers seized the opportunity to launch their attack.
“While the family was attending to their car, the gang approached them aggressively,” said a local witness who wished to remain anonymous. “It was terrifying to see such a violent act unfold in broad daylight. There was chaos everywhere.”
Emergency services arrived promptly on the scene, transporting the victims to a nearby hospital where they received urgent medical care. Authorities have since launched an investigation into the incident, appealing to the public for any information that could lead to the arrest of the perpetrators.
“This is a disturbing trend that we cannot allow to continue,” stated a police spokesperson. “We are doubling our efforts to ensure the safety of motorists along major highways and to clamp down on these gangs engaging in such criminal activities.”
This incident underscores the growing concerns about safety in and around Nairobi, particularly on busy routes often targeted by criminals. Authorities urge drivers to remain vigilant, especially in less populated areas, as they travel along highways.
The family is currently recovering from their injuries, but the emotional and psychological toll of the attack will undoubtedly linger. The community continues to rally, offering support and solidarity in the wake of this traumatic event.