Tension gripped Kitalakapel Technical Training Institute in West Pokot County as armed assailants stormed the institution instilling fear and chaos among students and faculty members.

The incident, which occurred on Thursday, June 27, saw masked men storming the premises, posing as students while issuing threats and causing disruption.

Eyewitnesses described scenes of panic as students and staff sought refuge in classrooms and administrative offices.

“We were picking up our examination papers when the goons joined us. They pretended to be students and demanded to see their exam papers,” recounted Victor Kisang, a student at the institute.

“We were in the middle of our practical sessions when we heard shouts and saw people running. It was terrifying,” shared Jairus Ngaile, another student.

Local law enforcement swiftly responded, establishing a perimeter and negotiating with the armed individuals, who were later subdued by students before police officers arrived.

The six goons, a lady and five men armed with knives, were later taken to Kapenguria Police Station for interrogation.

“We are working closely with the authorities to ensure the safety and security of everyone in the institute,” assured Kevin Wekalamoyo, one of the trainers at the institute. “Our primary concern is the well-being of our students and staff.”

Following the incident, the Kitalakapel community gathered outside the institute, anxiously awaiting updates on the unfolding situation.

Early in the morning, tension had escalated as students and staff found the institute’s gates locked. The students forcefully gained entry after breaking the gate, revealing underlying security lapses.

Investigations uncovered that the assailants claimed they were hired by a disgruntled staff member aiming to disrupt the institute due to administrative grievances.

The incident at Kitalakapel Technical Training Institute underscores the vulnerability of educational institutions to security threats, prompting calls for heightened security measures and vigilance across similar establishments nationwide.