A suspected thief lost his life at the hands of a mob following a failed robbery attempt in Westlands, Nairobi.

The drama unfolded on July 31, 2024 at the Sarit Centre roundabout after the suspect, riding as a passenger on a motorcycle, allegedly snatched a mobile phone from a pedestrian.

This ignited a frantic chase that culminated in a violent confrontation with a group of bystanders.

According to police accounts, the motorcycle’s rider and his accomplice attempted to evade capture as law enforcement officers pursued them.

During the chase, a brief exchange of gunfire erupted between the rider and the police, but fortunately, no injuries were reported.

Witnesses described the scene as chaotic, with the suspects speeding towards Sarit Centre, where they were eventually intercepted by other motorcycle riders who had joined the pursuit.

The mob managed to subdue the passenger, who was then subjected to a brutal beating. Despite being rescued and rushed to a nearby hospital, he was pronounced dead upon arrival.

Authorities later discovered a firearm with ten bullets in the possession of the deceased, raising concerns about his potential involvement in other criminal activities.

Additionally, stolen items, including the mobile phone and a passport belonging to the victim, were recovered.

In the aftermath of this tragic event, police initiated a manhunt for the motorcycle rider who managed to escape.

Police also issued a stern warning against mob justice, urging the public to allow law enforcement to handle criminal suspects appropriately.