Notorious gang leader killed in gun battle as police intensify crackdown in Meru

A suspected gang leader was shot dead in the early hours of Saturday following a fierce exchange of gunfire with security officers in Meru County.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, the incident occurred at around 2:00 a.m. in Shauri Yako area, Linjoka sub-location, within Igembe North Sub-County, during a joint patrol by officers from Kenya Police Service and DCI.

Police said the officers encountered a group of about five men suspected to be involved in criminal activities. Upon being challenged, the suspects reportedly opened fire, prompting officers to return fire in self-defense.

During the shootout, one of the suspects was fatally shot while four others escaped into nearby thickets.

Authorities identified the deceased as Mutembei Kola, whom they described as a notorious gang leader linked to a series of violent crimes in the area.

At the scene, officers recovered a Beretta pistol loaded with three rounds of ammunition and a spent cartridge, which investigators say points to the level of threat posed by the gang.

The body of the deceased was moved to Nyambene Sub-County Hospital mortuary pending a post-mortem examination.

Police have since launched a manhunt for the four suspects who remain at large, warning that they are armed and dangerous. Investigations into the incident and the broader criminal network are ongoing.

The DCI commended the officers involved in the operation, reiterating its commitment to dismantling criminal gangs and restoring security in affected regions.