A tragic shooting incident unfolded early Sunday morning at Ng’iya Police Post in Siaya County, leaving two officers dead in what authorities suspect may have stemmed from a personal dispute or mental health crisis.
The incident, which occurred around 6:00 a.m. on June 29, involved Constable Martin Mwendwa and his superior, Corporal Chesise. Preliminary reports indicate that Constable Mwendwa, armed with a G3 rifle, entered the residence of Corporal Chesise and opened fire. The corporal sustained fatal gunshot wounds to the chest and arms.
Officers stationed nearby responded swiftly upon hearing gunfire. In the ensuing confrontation, Mwendwa was intercepted as he attempted to flee the scene. He was fatally shot by fellow officers during the confrontation, bringing the violent episode to a grim conclusion.
Authorities are treating the matter with urgency and sensitivity as investigations continue. Gem Yala Sub-County Police leadership confirmed that officers acted quickly to secure the area and launch an investigation. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, but investigators are exploring various possibilities, including a personal disagreement and potential psychological distress.
Early findings point to a possible dispute between the two officers, though it remains unclear whether the disagreement escalated recently or had been festering over time. Investigators are also examining whether Constable Mwendwa may have been struggling with mental health challenges, possibly affecting his actions.
The incident has cast a pall over the Ng’iya Police Post and the wider law enforcement community in Siaya County, raising renewed concerns about the psychological well-being of officers serving in high-stress environments. It has also brought attention to the importance of internal support systems and regular mental health assessments within the police service.
The bodies of the two officers were transferred to Siaya County Referral Hospital mortuary, where post-mortems will be conducted to aid in the ongoing investigations.
As the inquiry proceeds, authorities have appealed for patience and discretion, assuring the public that all angles are being thoroughly examined. The tragic event underscores the complex challenges facing security agencies and highlights the need for deeper investment in officer welfare and conflict resolution mechanisms.
The investigation continues as the community and fellow officers come to terms with the devastating loss of two lives in such a sudden and distressing manner.
