Detectives have arrested four suspects in connection with the theft of a firearm that went missing during the funeral of former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Bondo, Siaya County.
The incident occurred on October 19 at the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST), where hundreds of mourners had gathered to pay their last respects. According to police reports, a Jericho pistol with serial number 40309458, loaded with 15 rounds of 9mm ammunition, was stolen from PC Benson Kodia Olayo, a General Service Unit (GSU) officer attached to the security detail of the Kakamega Governor.
The officer is said to have lost the weapon during a moment of confusion as crowds surged to catch a glimpse of leaders attending the high-profile burial ceremony.
After days of intelligence gathering, detectives traced the missing firearm to the Mbeme area in Kisumu, where a team of officers conducted a well-coordinated raid. The operation led to the arrest of four suspects, who were found hiding in a house believed to have been used to conceal the stolen weapon.
The suspects are currently being held at Kasagam Police Station as investigations continue to determine their level of involvement and whether the firearm had been used in any criminal activities.
Police say the recovery operation underscores the importance of timely information-sharing between the public and law enforcement agencies. They have also urged citizens to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activities in their neighborhoods.
The incident has raised security concerns over the management of firearms during major political and public events, especially those attended by VIPs and large crowds.
