A conflict turned deadly early Sunday at Ng’iya Police Post in Siaya County when police officers shot and killed one of their own, a junior officer, after he killed his senior and allegedly resisted arrest.
The suspect, Constable Martin Mwendwa, is said to have forced his way into Corporal Chesise’s residence, his senior at the station, and fired several shots at him with a G3 rifle.
According to Gem Sub-County Police Commander Charles Wafula, only two officers were stationed at the post at the time. A third officer, who resides outside the post, heard the gunshots and rushed to the scene.
“This morning, a police officer residing outside the post heard gunshots from within. Upon arriving at the scene, he found the suspect firing indiscriminately. He immediately called for reinforcements from the Officer Commanding Station at Kogelo Police Station,” Wafula said.
Reinforcements arrived fast and attempts were made to restrain Mwendwa. But he resisted and ran about a kilometre away still carrying the weapon. Officers eventually cornered him, and when he refused to surrender, they were reportedly forced to open fire.
Wafula said that investigations are still underway to establish what caused the deadly clash between the two officers.
Commander Wafula advised officers to stay calm when using firearms and emphasized the need to manage emotions during difficult moments. He also pointed out efforts by the National Police Service to promote mental health awareness among officers nationwide.
“The National Police Service is running mental health awareness campaigns all over the country,” he added.
The officers’ bodies were moved to Siaya County Referral Hospital Mortuary as the investigation continues.
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