An armed police officer has been taken into custody following a fatal shooting at Flax market in Elgeyo Marakwet county, where a confrontation over a woman escalated into violence.
The incident occurred outside a local pub on Thursday night when 25-year-old Philemon Salwa Mugambi was shot in the head by Sergeant Justus Kirimi, an officer attached to the Railways AP camp. Mugambi later died at Moi Referral Hospital after being rushed there following the attack.
Keiyo South DCI Samwel Otieno confirmed the arrest, stating the officer's weapon was seized. Witnesses reported that Kirimi was inside the pub when the victim approached him, sparking a confrontation that drew other patrons. The dispute reportedly centered on a woman present at the scene.
During the altercation, Kirimi discharged his pistol, wounding Mugambi and injuring himself. The officer received treatment and was released, while the victim's family has been notified. Otieno emphasized that statements from the woman and other witnesses are being collected as investigations continue.
Elgeyo Marakwet County Police Commander Kennedy Kimani urged citizens and officers alike to avoid vigilantism, promising disciplinary action if the officer is found to have misused his firearm. The case will proceed to court after the inquiry concludes.
