Police van./FILEThe National Police Service has appealed to members of the public to provide any information that could aid in the arrest of a suspect involved in the fatal shooting of a police officer in Thika Town.
Police Constable Benard Koome Ithai, aged 32, was shot and killed in the line of duty on Wednesday at the Cravers area in Thika.
The officer was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival.
Describing the incident as a “tragic loss,” the NPS confirmed that a criminal suspect fatally shot the officer before fleeing the scene.
In response, police officers launched an immediate investigation, working closely with local residents to gather leads.
Currently, investigators are “pursuing critical leads” to apprehend the suspect, NPS said in a press statement issued by spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga on Thursday.
“We commend members of the public for providing crucial information regarding the incident and appeal to anyone with further details that could assist the investigation to contact the nearest police station,” the statement read.
Nyaga urged the public to use the toll-free emergency lines 999, 911, 112, or the DCI hotline #FichuakwaDCI (0800 722 203) to report any information that may assist in the ongoing manhunt.
The police service expressed its condolences to the family, friends, and colleagues of the fallen officer, assuring them of “unwavering support during this time of profound sorrow.”
Reiterating its commitment to public safety, the NPS said it would “continue to pursue and dismantle criminal networks to ensure the safety and security of all Kenyans, as well as residents and visitors.”
Constable Koome was in the company of other officers when he was shot in the neck.
The officers were within Craver's area of Thika town when they sighted a suspicious motorcycle and intercepted it.
Police said the rider abandoned the bike and started running away, firing aimlessly, and in the process hit Koome in the neck.
The other officers pursued the gunman, who continued firing in the air as he escaped on foot.
A Czeska pistol magazine and two spent cartridges of 9mm calibre were found at the scene.
The officer was rushed to a nearby hospital, where he succumbed to injuries while undergoing treatment.
