Detectives are hunting two police officers accused of carrying out separate killings in Vihiga and Kitui counties, sparking fears over the rising cases of rogue officers turning on colleagues and civilians.
In the latest incident, the suspect is alleged to have shot and killed fellow officer Nicholas Samoei at Esirabe Primary School in Luanda, Vihiga County, on Friday, August 22.
The two had been deployed to guard a government fertiliser store when an argument broke out.
According to police, Samoei was shot once in the head at close range. His body was later found inside a room next to the fertiliser store, while 26 spent cartridges were recovered outside the building.
Investigators said the suspect fled the scene with his colleague’s CZ rifle, raising fears he could be armed and dangerous.
The killing comes just weeks after another officer, Constable Bernard Siambe, allegedly opened fire at Kanyonyoo market in Kitui County, killing two women on August 4.
He abandoned his AK-47 rifle with 26 bullets in a nearby thicket before disappearing.
Police say both officers remain at large despite manhunts extending to rural homes, urban slums, and other potential hideouts.
Authorities have appealed to the two to surrender for questioning.
The incidents have renewed concerns over the mental health of officers working under extreme pressure. Officials say trauma, stress, and substance abuse remain major challenges in the service.
To address the growing crisis, the National Police Service has launched counselling programmes and established a dedicated unit to provide mental health support.
The unit is tasked with designing outreach programmes aimed at preventing breakdowns that could lead to violence.
Police commanders acknowledged that officers often bear the brunt of community problems but warned that turning weapons on colleagues or civilians will not be tolerated.
Investigations into the two killings are ongoing.
