A police officer was found dead in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, after reportedly shooting himself with his service rifle inside his house.
The officer, identified as Constable Daniel Okoth, allegedly died by suicide on the night of Friday, September 12, 2025. Reports indicate that he had been issued an AK-47 rifle for night duty at around 7 pm but failed to report for his assignment. Instead, he went back home, placed the rifle under his chin, and pulled the trigger.
Neighbours said they heard a gunshot and rushed to the officer’s residence. The door was partially open, and on entering, they found his body lying in a pool of blood with the weapon next to him. Police confirmed that the rifle still had 29 rounds of ammunition remaining.
The body was later taken to the mortuary pending a post-mortem examination as investigations continue. The motive behind the incident is yet to be established.
This case adds to a growing list of suicide cases within the police service. Just a week earlier, another constable in Machakos County died after ingesting pesticide at his home. He had reportedly been struggling with financial difficulties before the incident.
The increasing number of such cases has raised alarm within the service, prompting the establishment of counselling and mental health support units. The National Police Service Commission has set up a specialised team to offer psychological support and run outreach programmes aimed at helping officers cope with stress, trauma, and substance abuse.
Mental health experts warn that police officers often endure extreme pressures due to the nature of their work. From maintaining law and order to handling violent confrontations and resolving community disputes, officers operate under constant strain, sometimes at the risk of their own lives.
According to the World Health Organization, suicide is linked to multiple risk factors, including financial hardship, family history, depression, and substance misuse. The organisation emphasises the importance of early intervention and counselling to reduce the risk.
Authorities have urged officers to seek professional help whenever they experience overwhelming stress or personal struggles. With rising concerns about mental health in the police service, there is renewed focus on creating a supportive environment that encourages open discussion and access to counselling.
