An officer suspected to have killed a rider last week Thursday at Mutuati market in Meru for refusing to give him a ride allegedly had threatened his wife, police said.
The 58-year-old officer from Kitale was stationed at Kamweline police post and he is said to have fired several bullets towards the rider.
On the day he is accused of having shot the rider, he allegedly threatened his estranged wife, saying "your fate is doomed," an officer familiar with the investigations told the Star.
The officer, declining to be identified by name, said the police officer and his wife had a quarrel and she had sought assistance on child upkeep from the children's office and the women lawyers association.
She alleged she had been abandoned by her husband, he said.
“We are aware the wife reported the threats to the Meru county police commander on Tuesday. She was informed the officer was in custody over suspected murder,” the officer told the Star.
Detectives have been allowed 14 days to hold the suspect while they investigate.
Residents called on Ipoa and Police IG Hillary Mutyambai to ensure justice is served.
Witnesses told police the officer was drunk and when he demanded the rider take him home from Mutuati, the rider refused.
“The young man was innocent. He only refused to ferry him to his destination. The OCS arrived at the scene the same evening and arrested the officer. The rider has left a young family,” a witness said.
Igembe North DCIO Kelvin Abanga said there was a confrontation between the rider and the officer after the officer suspected the motorbike had been stolen.
“Upon inquiry by our officer, the suspect turned violent and by bad luck, the officer responded and shot the rider. I urge the public to remain calm as we continue investigations,” he said.
Police commander Emmanuel Okanda said investigations have been launched and action will be taken.
“He used his firearm in the unprecedented and unlawful manner. Action has been taken and I urge residents to be calm as there must be justice,” Okanda said.
The officer's first wife died in 2017.
Edited by Kiilu Damaris
