A police officer was fatally shot on Wednesday afternoon in Thika West, Kiambu County, during a routine security patrol.
Police Constable Bernard Koome was attacked by an armed assailant in the Cravers area, succumbing to his injuries after being rushed to the hospital.
According to police reports, Koome and a colleague had attempted to intercept a suspicious motorcycle when the rider suddenly abandoned the bike and fled on foot, firing indiscriminately.
The assailant shot Koome in the neck before escaping as other officers pursued him. Despite the chase, the gunman managed to evade capture while continuing to fire shots in the air.
A disturbing video later surfaced, showing the suspect hijacking a bodaboda motorcycle at gunpoint in Thika’s Section 9. The footage reveals the lone attacker stopping a rider who was transporting a customer, brandishing a firearm, and forcefully taking the bike to aid his escape.
The armed suspect is seen threatening the rider at gunpoint before commandeering the motorcycle and fleeing the area. The victim, left unharmed, complied as the assailant sped off.
Authorities have since launched an intensive manhunt for the suspect, appealing to the public for any information that may assist in his capture.
Law enforcement agencies continue to comb the area and review surveillance footage to track his movements.
The fallen officer, Constable Koome, is mourned by colleagues and family as the police service vows to bring the perpetrator to justice.
