Shock and grief have engulfed the National Police Service after a serving officer allegedly turned on his colleagues, killing one and seriously injuring another during a violent confrontation at Salama Police Post in Laikipia West.
The incident occurred on Friday evening following an argument between officers on duty at the post. Police say the dispute escalated when Constable Victor Chesang’ Mengich (42) allegedly armed himself with a knife and attacked his colleague, Constable Abel Kivoto Kimanzi. Kimanzi sustained severe stab wounds and bled to death at the scene before he could be rushed to hospital.
As the confrontation unfolded, the officer in charge of the station, Sergeant Wahome Muigai Muiruri, attempted to intervene and restrain the attacker. He was also stabbed and seriously injured in the process. Another officer was reportedly hurt as colleagues and members of the public rushed in to subdue Mengich, who was eventually overpowered, handcuffed and placed under arrest.
The injured officers were initially treated at a nearby health facility before being referred to Nyahururu County Referral Hospital for specialised care. The body of Constable Kimanzi was taken to the Pope Benedict XVI Catholic Hospital mortuary pending a post-mortem examination.
Police have launched investigations to establish the exact circumstances that led to the fatal altercation, with the suspect currently being held at Nyahururu Police Station as detectives record statements and reconstruct events.
The killing has sent shockwaves through the police service and the wider public, especially after it emerged that the slain officer had recently been recognised for bravery. The tragedy has renewed concerns over stress, discipline and mental wellbeing among officers working in high-pressure environments.
Authorities are expected to issue a detailed statement once investigations are complete, even as colleagues and residents mourn the loss of Constable Kimanzi and pray for the recovery of the injured officers.
