Recovered Rifle Brings Relief to Matungulu After Weeks of Tension

A firearm stolen from Kinyui Police Station two months ago has been recovered in Matungulu, Machakos County, bringing an end to weeks of anxiety among residents. The recovery marks a major win for local law enforcement, who had been under pressure to locate the weapon linked to rising insecurity in the area.

The breakthrough came on Tuesday evening when the gun was discovered abandoned in Katine, following a relentless operation by security officers. The find came barely 24 hours after Machakos County Commissioner Josephine Ouko assured the public that authorities were closing in on the suspect and that the firearm would soon be found.

Confirming the discovery, Matungulu Deputy County Commissioner Evelyn Wekesa said the rifle was recovered without its butt stock and magazine, parts believed to have been detached before it was dumped. She noted that security teams are now working to trace the missing components and establish whether they were tampered with or disposed of elsewhere.

“We are pleased to have recovered the firearm, but the search for the suspect is still ongoing. Our officers are pursuing all possible leads to ensure the individual behind this theft is brought to justice,” said Wekesa.

The weapon’s disappearance had fueled a wave of fear among residents, with many linking recent cases of robberies and livestock theft to the missing firearm. The recovery, therefore, comes as a huge relief to the community, which had been urging authorities to act swiftly.

According to Wekesa, joint patrols and intelligence-led operations will continue across Matungulu to ensure safety and stability are fully restored. She also called upon locals to share any information that could aid in capturing the suspect, emphasizing that community cooperation remains vital in maintaining peace.

Residents, while expressing gratitude for the recovery, have appealed for tighter security and better safeguards within police stations to prevent similar incidents in the future. The recovered rifle has since been taken for forensic examination as investigations intensify.

Authorities remain optimistic that the suspect’s arrest is imminent and that full calm will soon return to the area.