Kikuyu in Panic: Killer Gangs Strike as University Forced to Shut Down Classes

A wave of violent gang attacks has plunged Thogoto estate in Kikuyu, Kiambu County, into fear, leaving one person dead, several others injured, and forcing the University of Nairobi’s Kikuyu campus to suspend in-person classes.

Residents say the area has effectively fallen under siege, with armed gangs launching brutal night attacks that have disrupted normal life and sparked outrage over what many describe as a breakdown in security.

In one of the most chilling incidents, a 30-year-old man, Gustavo Victor Karani, was found murdered by the roadside near Thogoto Hospital after a violent assault. His death has shaken the community, with his family recounting his final moments as deeply disturbing.

According to his mother, Pamela Lakena, Karani had earlier been involved in a dispute over a power bank before agreeing to escort individuals to his home and later to a police station—but he never arrived.

“He was beaten severely. We only received the news in the morning… and when we went to check, we found it was him,” she said.

Witnesses say he was last seen leaving a bar late at night, heading towards Thogoto Police Station—a short distance he never completed.

Students and Lecturers Targeted

The violence has not spared students. Sharon Jemutai, a University of Nairobi student, is currently recovering at her home in Syokimau after she was ambushed at night, robbed of her phone, and left with serious injuries.

The attack has intensified fear among students, many of whom say they feel abandoned despite paying rent and taxes in the area.

“As a student fraternity, we are frustrated. We are paying rent in this region and even paying taxes,” said student Don Ochieng.

Lecturers have also come under attack. In a shocking incident, a lecturer was recently stabbed and is now hospitalised, an event that pushed the university administration to shift learning online.

“Our innocent lecturer has been stabbed. He is in hospital fighting for his life, yet leaders have done little,” said Zinnorag Zainab, President of the UoN Kikuyu Campus Students Association.

Residents Speak of Lawlessness

Residents describe a pattern of coordinated attacks carried out by gangs armed with machetes, knives, and clubs, often using motorbikes to escape.

“They strike quickly—stab, rob, and disappear. When we report, nothing is done. Insecurity has become rampant,” said resident Hosea Maina Mutahi.

The growing wave of violence has triggered anger and desperation, with locals accusing security agencies of inaction despite repeated reports.

Calls for Urgent Action

With fear spreading and institutions disrupted, residents and students are now demanding immediate security operations to restore order in Thogoto.

As the death toll rises and attacks continue, the question remains: who will reclaim Thogoto from the grip of violent gangs?