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Tragic Turn During Routine Patrol
A police officer, Constable Bernard Koome of the Special Police Intercept and Verification (SPIV) unit, was fatally shot in Thika West, Kiambu County on Tuesday, June 17, 2025. The incident occurred while he and three colleagues were conducting routine inspections of motorcycles in the Cravers area.
According to eyewitnesses, the officers stopped a boda boda rider who lacked the required border board registration code. As one officer reached for the bike’s ignition, an argument erupted, escalating into deadly violence.
Deadly Encounter: Rider Seizes Police Weapon
In the heat of the altercation, the rider overpowered Koome, seized his firearm, and shot him in the neck at close range. The suspect then fled the scene by hijacking another motorcycle and vanished before officers could mount a response.
Police later recovered a loaded CZ pistol magazine and two spent 9mm cartridges at the crime scene, suggesting the suspect had fired more than once while fleeing.
National Police Respond and Launch Manhunt
The National Police Service has launched a manhunt for the armed suspect. A statement issued by authorities revealed that the suspect fired multiple shots into the air while evading capture.
“He continued firing as he fled. Officers have recovered a magazine and cartridges, and we are working to apprehend him,” police stated.
Parallel Incident in Nakuru
The Thika tragedy follows another deadly incident on June 1, 2025, in Nakuru, where armed gangsters ambushed officers on foot patrol. One officer was killed, and two others were hospitalized after the attack.
According to Nakuru County Commissioner Loyford Kibaara, five suspects were arrested and an AK-47 rifle recovered. The injured officers remain under care at Nakuru Level Five Hospital.
Police Reforms and Accountability
These violent episodes have sparked renewed calls for police reforms and better protective measures for officers on duty. Inspector General Douglas Kanja reaffirmed the commitment to reforms, urging officers to stay alert and follow safety protocols during patrols.
