Fuel Attendant Shot Dead in Botched Robbery at Kitheo Fuel Station, Tigania

Tigania, Meru County – July 24, 2025: A routine night shift turned deadly when Josephat Muriithi, a 26-year-old fuel station attendant, was fatally shot during a robbery attempt in Kitheo, Tigania. This incident adds to a worrying surge in violent crimes across Meru County.

According to police sources, Muriithi and a colleague were approached around 10:00 PM by three men on a motorcycle pretending to be customers. After requesting fuel, one of the assailants allegedly grabbed Muriithi and demanded cash.

“They asked for fuel. After refueling, one of them grabbed Muriithi and demanded the day’s cash,” said a local officer involved in the investigation.

When Muriithi resisted, the attacker drew a pistol and shot him twice—in the chest and armpit.

Robbers Flee Empty-Handed as Victim Dies

Despite the violence, the attackers fled without stealing any money. Officers later recovered KSh 8,150 from Muriithi’s pocket, which was handed over to his colleague. Attempts to resist the robbery appear to have tragically escalated the situation.

Muriithi collapsed just a few meters from the scene and died shortly afterward. His body was moved to the Meru Level 5 Hospital mortuary, pending a postmortem examination.

Bullet Casing Recovered as DCI Launches Manhunt

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) recovered a spent bullet casing at the scene, providing a key lead in the hunt for the perpetrators. A team of DCI officers from both Meru and Nairobi has been dispatched to intensify the investigation.

“We are pursuing the suspects. No arrests yet, but we’re following crucial leads,” said a spokesperson from the Meru County Police Command.

Rising Insecurity in Tigania Raises Alarm

Tigania, located in Meru County, has recently experienced a wave of armed robberies, burglaries, and attacks on businesses—especially in remote and poorly lit trading centers. In its latest quarterly brief, Haki Africa noted that residents of Meru and Isiolo now rate “personal security” as their top concern.

In response, police have increased patrols and surveillance in hot spots like Kitheo, a small but strategically located town along key transit routes. Law enforcement agencies believe that criminal gangs may be operating in the region and taking advantage of its rural cover.

Residents Urged to Report Suspicious Activity

Police are appealing to the community to remain vigilant and report any suspicious individuals or movements. Authorities suspect the attackers may be hiding locally, and any information could lead to their capture.

“The criminals may be hiding within the community. Any tip, even anonymous, could help,” said a senior officer involved in the case.

Residents are encouraged to visit their nearest police station or submit tips through the DCI’s anonymous reporting portal.

This call to action echoes Inspector General Japhet Koome’s nationwide push for community policing, especially in areas with limited police presence.