Friends and relatives of Ali Salim Gichunge who has been linked with the execution of the DusitD2 complex terror attack 3 days ago, have express shock on revelation that the man who left the area in 2015 was involved in the attack.
The friends and relatives said Gichunge was born and bred in Kulamawe, Bulapesa ward in Isiolo County and described him as God Fearing, loving and outgoing person, who never engaged in alcoholism and other drugs.
A childhood friend of Gichunge Mr. Moses Kinyua said he was only one class ahead of the terror suspect while they schooled at Hekima primary school in Isiolo.
He said Gichunge was bright in school and expressed dismay at the news that his friend indulged in acts of terrorism.
He sent condolences to the families and quick recovery to those who sustained injuries following the attack.
And Waso location Chief Mr. James Chuchu noted that Gichunge’s family lived peacefully with neighbours, adding that not a single complaint was heard about any member.
The chief said that the young man’s father who is identified as Abdallah Salim, works as a driver with the Department of Defense in one of the barracks near Isiolo town had abandoned the family many years ago, leaving the mother, Sakina Mariam to take care of their children.
Miriam was arrested by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, questioned at the Isiolo Anti Terror Police Unit (ATPU) offices and later taken to Nairobi headquarters for further interrogation.
Friends and relatives refrained from making remarks on camera following the arrest of Gichunge’s mother, for fear of being victimized, but expressed shock at the turn of events as they knew him as a God fearing and responsible young man.
By David Nduro
