Eldoret-based detectives recovered a firearm stolen from a police officer last week on Thursday.

The firearm, a Jericho pistol serial number KP 44332663 loaded with three rounds of 9mm calibre was recovered from one Hillary Kibet alias Chabarbar, following a fierce afternoon shootout at Kampi Nguruwe in Langas township, Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County. 

Sounds of fierce gunfire rent the air as the detectives faced off with the suspect in a vicious exchange of fire that disrupted business activities in the densely populated settlement. 

Residents of the area hastily retreated to the safety of their houses, leaving behind only a few drunkards who couldn’t comprehend exactly what was happening and opted to watch the unfolding scene from a safe distance.

Apparently, Chebarbar opened sporadic fire after he saw officers approaching his mud-walled hideout, forcing the detectives to take cover in sewer puddles.

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The commander of the operation signalled his colleague who was waiting in their car via radio, and instructed him to go for the target through a window at the back of the room, as they covered fire. 

In a few moments, the police officers quickly subdued Chebarbar who preferred his life over the imminent hail of bullets and surrendered. 

The firearm was recovered from him before he was whisked to the waiting police car. 

The suspect is believed to have snatched the firearm from a senior police officer, in an incident that was reported on November 3, 2022, at the Pioneer Police Post. 

Since the incident was reported, the firearm has been used in at least three robbery incidents within Eldoret and its environs. 

Preliminary investigations have established that Chabarbar is the leader of a gang of criminals targeting motorists within Eldoret town. 

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations thanks the members of the public who provided information leading to the recovery of the firearm and the arrest of the suspect.