Lamu, Kenya – A cloud of sorrow and disbelief hangs over Mokowe village in Lamu West after a chilling early morning incident where a General Service Unit (GSU) officer allegedly shot dead his wife and young daughter before taking his own life.
Shocking Incident Unfolds at Dawn
The tragic event unfolded around 5am on Sunday, May 11, as four gunshots shattered the early morning calm. Alarmed neighbours rushed to the officer’s house only to discover a harrowing scene: the bodies of the officer, his wife, and their daughter, all dead from gunshot wounds.
Scene of the incident in Mokowe, Lamu West. Photo: Courtesy
Domestic Dispute Turns Deadly
Witnesses said the couple had engaged in a heated argument on Saturday night. Authorities suspect the argument escalated, leading to the fatal shootings. According to preliminary reports, the woman was shot twice, while the child was hit by a single bullet before the officer turned the weapon on himself.
Lamu County Commissioner Wesley Koech confirmed the tragedy, stating that investigations are ongoing to establish the exact cause and motive behind the deadly outburst.
Rising Concerns Over Police Mental Health
This incident adds to a troubling trend of police officers involved in fatal domestic incidents or suicides. Just last month in Homa Bay County, another officer reportedly killed his children before committing suicide.
As cases of mental distress among police continue to emerge, the National Police Service (NPS) has established a dedicated counselling unit to offer psychological support to officers facing mental health challenges.
Authorities Urge Calm and Investigations Underway
The bodies have been moved to Mpeketoni Sub-County Hospital mortuary. Meanwhile, police have launched a full investigation to understand the circumstances surrounding the latest tragedy and whether prior warnings were missed.
