A tragic incident unfolded in Kitui County on Sunday night when an armed police officer allegedly shot and killed his girlfriend and her friend after a heated altercation at Kanyonyoo market.
The officer, who was reportedly on duty at the time, is said to have left his post at the report office while armed with an AK-47 rifle. He proceeded to a nearby bar where his girlfriend, identified as Joy Mutisya, was socialising with friends.
According to accounts from witnesses and police reports, the officer and Joy had quarreled earlier in the day over undisclosed issues. The situation escalated when he stormed into the bar in uniform and armed, alarming patrons who quickly sensed the potential for violence.
Realising the danger, Joy fled the bar and sought refuge at the home of her friend, identified only as Judy. Unfortunately, the officer pursued her to the residence, where he opened fire, fatally shooting both women before fleeing the scene on foot.
Police who responded to the incident found the lifeless bodies of the two women and immediately launched a manhunt for the suspect. In a surprising turn, the officer later made contact with his superiors and disclosed that he had abandoned his firearm a loaded AK-47 with 26 rounds still in the magazine in a thicket along the Matuu road. The weapon was later recovered by police.
Two spent cartridges were found at the scene of the shooting. The bodies of the deceased were taken to the Kitui Level Five Hospital mortuary for postmortem examinations.
The shocking event has reignited discussions about the mental wellbeing of law enforcement officers. Authorities have expressed concerns over increasing cases involving police officers engaging in extreme acts of violence, often linked to unresolved psychological issues and trauma.
In response to such challenges, the National Police Service Commission has established a counselling and wellness unit aimed at helping officers manage stress, trauma, and substance abuse problems.
The suspect remains at large as police intensify their search, urging members of the public to report any leads. The double killing has left the Kanyonyoo community in shock, with residents calling for greater oversight and psychological support for armed officers.
