Crime scene./FILEA police officer in Kitui County allegedly shot and killed his girlfriend and her friend on Sunday night, August 3, in a fit of rage following an altercation at Kanyonyoo market.
The officer had been on duty at the report office when he left his post, reportedly armed with an AK-47 rifle, and went to confront his girlfriend at a nearby bar.
According to witnesses and police reports, the officer had earlier quarreled with the woman, identified as Joy Mutisya, over undisclosed reasons.
He stormed into the bar where she was socialising, prompting alarm among revelers who noticed he was in uniform and armed.
Sensing danger, Joy fled the bar and sought refuge at a nearby house belonging to her friend, identified only as Judy. The suspect followed her to the house, where he shot and killed both women before fleeing on foot.
Responding officers found the bodies of the two women and launched an immediate manhunt.
The officer later contacted his superiors, informing them he had abandoned his rifle—with 26 rounds of ammunition still in the magazine—in a thicket along the Matuu road.
Police recovered the weapon and continued their pursuit, but the suspect managed to disappear into nearby bushes.
Two spent cartridges were recovered at the crime scene. The bodies of Joy and Judy were taken to Kitui Level Five Hospital mortuary for postmortem examinations.
Authorities say the shooting highlights growing concerns over mental health struggles among police officers.
The National Police Service Commission has established a counselling unit to address trauma, mental health challenges, and substance abuse within the force.
Police say the manhunt for the suspect is ongoing.
