Police Firearm Lost During Odinga Funeral in Bondo

 

A police firearm went missing under dramatic circumstances during the funeral ceremony of the late Rt. Hon. Raila Amolo Odinga, held at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) in Bondo, Siaya County.

The incident occurred at approximately 4:30 p.m., when a General Service Unit (GSU) officer, identified as Police Constable Benson Kodia, reported that his loaded Jericho pistol was forcefully taken from its holster by unidentified youths in the crowd. PC Kodia is attached to the VIP Protection Unit of the Kakamega County Governor, who was present at the high-profile event.

According to initial reports, the officer was escorting the Governor from the venue when the weapon was snatched amid a large and restless crowd. Security officers on the ground launched immediate recovery efforts, but the chaotic nature of the crowd hampered their response, and the weapon could not be retrieved.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Bondo has since taken over the case and initiated a full-scale investigation into the matter. Authorities are pursuing several leads in an effort to identify and apprehend the suspects involved.

“We urge members of the public to remain calm and to cooperate with security agencies. Anyone with information that could help locate the missing firearm or identify the individuals responsible is encouraged to come forward,” a police statement read.

The loss of the firearm has raised serious concerns about security during large public gatherings, especially those attended by key political figures and dignitaries. Security around the funeral, which attracted thousands of mourners from across the country and beyond, had been heightened, but the incident underscores the challenges faced by law enforcement during such events.

No injuries were reported during the altercation, and authorities have assured the public that all necessary steps are being taken to recover the weapon and ensure safety in the region.