Officer Shot Dead in Thika

 

By Faith Cherop

 A police officer has died following a fatal shooting during a routine motorcycle inspection in the Cravers area of Thika West, Kiambu County.

The officer, identified as Benard Koome, was reportedly shot in the neck by a motorbike rider on the evening of June 18 while conducting checks alongside three other officers. According to eyewitnesses, the rider had been stopped for lacking proper registration number plates required in the area.

An altercation reportedly broke out when Officer Koome confiscated the motorbike keys, intending to impound the vehicle. In response, the rider pulled out a firearm and shot Koome before fleeing the scene.

Authorities say the suspect escaped by commandeering another motorcycle that was parked in front of the Royal Hotel, which already had a passenger on board. The identities of the suspect and the motorbike passenger remain unknown.

Koome was rushed to Thika Nursing Home but was pronounced dead shortly after arrival.

In a statement, police confirmed that a bullet-riddled newspaper was recovered at the scene, which forensic experts are currently examining for evidence. The motive behind the shooting remains unclear, and investigations are ongoing.

This incident comes just weeks after a similar attack on June 1 in Nakuru County, where an officer from Bondeni Police Station was killed and two others injured by armed individuals in the Uhuru area. Security agencies are now expressing growing concern over the recent surge in violence targeting law enforcement officers.

Police have appealed to the public for any information that may assist in locating the suspect. “We urge anyone with knowledge of this suspect’s identity or whereabouts to come forward. We will ensure their confidentiality and safety,” said a senior officer from Thika West Police Division.

The National Police Service has vowed to intensify efforts to apprehend the suspect and ensure justice for Officer Koome, who was described by colleagues as dedicated and courageous.