Narok County Police Commander Patrick Lobolia says there is a correlation between rising wave of insecurity and gold mining activities in Transmara West Sub-County.

The upsurge of crime comes even as police intensify operations to restore calm following the gunning down of two suspected robbers during a weekend security crackdown.

Fear and tension spread among residents and business owners in parts of the area after a series of robbery incidents that have disrupted normal activities and heightened concerns over public safety.

The latest incident unfolded over the weekend when three armed robbers allegedly stormed a local pub and made away with crates of alcohol. Acting on intelligence reports, police officers launched a manhunt that led to the interception of the suspects during a security operation.

According to Lobolia, the suspects were armed with an AK-47 rifle loaded with live ammunition, two Maasai swords, a hammer and a pair of pliers. Police suspect the gang is linked to several robbery incidents that have terrorized residents in the area.

During the operation, two of the suspects were shot dead while the third escaped with serious injuries. Security officers have since launched a fresh manhunt to track down and arrest the injured suspect.

Police also recovered the stolen items and moved the bodies of the deceased to the Transmara West Sub-County Hospital mortuary pending identification and further investigations.

Lobolia noted that increased gold mining in the region contributes to an upsurge in criminal activities, including armed robberies, as criminals target miners and businesses operating within the area.

He assured residents that police officers, together with intelligence teams, conduct continuous security operations aimed at dismantling criminal gangs and enhancing safety across the sub-county.

Residents have meanwhile called for increased police patrols and deployment of more security personnel, saying insecurity poses a threat to businesses and livelihoods of the local people.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Emmanuel Serem and / Emily Kadzo