Douglas Kipruto, a Kenyan youth, has undergone significant challenges in his life. Initially leading a simple and innocent existence, he was drug-free and focused on his daily routine, seeking relaxation at home.
However, an abrupt shift occurred when his friends persuaded him to join a criminal gang. Succumbing to the influence, Kipruto transformed into a burglar, engaging in robbery activities in Korogocho and Eastlands.
The consequences of a criminal life caught up with him swiftly, and within a few months, Douglas found himself behind bars. His journey involved periods of incarceration, release, and subsequent re-arrest, resulting in nearly a year and some months spent in jail.
Reflecting on his time in prison, Kipruto described it as an arduous experience that taught him valuable lessons. He highlighted the challenges of maintaining one’s integrity in such an environment, where the risk of becoming involved in undesirable situations, such as relationships or altercations, was prevalent.
The prison atmosphere proved to be vastly different from a life any ordinary person would desire. However, it served as a catalyst for Kipruto’s complete transformation. Upon his release, he made a conscious decision to reform, emerging as a changed and better individual.
Encouraging fellow youths, Kipruto emphatically urged them to steer clear of criminal gangs, emphasizing that a life of crime could lead to untimely death. His personal journey serves as a testament to the potential for positive change, even after a troubled past.
