Probe Launched After KDF Officer is Attacked & Killed by Unknown People

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched a probe following the brutal killing of a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer in Seme Sub-county, Kisumu County, in a shocking attack that has raised fresh concerns over rising insecurity during the festive season.

According to police reports, the incident occurred early Saturday morning when the officer, who was attached to the Embakasi Barracks in Nairobi, was heading home from Asat Beach alongside another man.

The two were ambushed by unknown attackers who struck them with sharp objects, leaving both with severe injuries.

Local authorities confirmed that the assailants targeted the victims without warning, inflicting deep cuts to their heads and limbs before fleeing the scene. Residents who heard distress calls rushed to assist and alerted the police.

The 46-year-old KDF officer was rushed to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital (JOOTRH) in critical condition. 

Despite efforts by medical staff, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival at the facility at around 4:00 a.m.

The second victim survived the vicious attack and is currently receiving treatment at the same hospital. Doctors described his condition as serious but stable, noting that he suffered multiple deep wounds during the assault.

Following the officer’s death, his body was transferred from the hospital mortuary to Kwea Funeral Home, where it is being preserved pending a post-mortem examination to establish the exact cause of death.

Speaking to journalists hours after the incident, West Othany Assistant Chief Richard Jaoko confirmed that security agencies had commenced investigations into the murder. 

He stated that detectives from the DCI, working alongside officers from Kombewa Police Station, visited the crime scene to collect evidence and record statements from potential witnesses.

Authorities have appealed to members of the public who may have information related to the attack to come forward and assist with investigations. 

Police believe that crucial leads may help identify the perpetrators and establish the motive behind the killing.

The murder comes at a time when several parts of the country are grappling with increased cases of insecurity, including muggings, robbery with violence, and murder. 

The spike in crime has been particularly noticeable during the December festive season, when movement of people increases and many areas experience reduced security patrols.

In response to the growing security concerns, the Ministry of Interior earlier this week announced enhanced security measures aimed at protecting lives and property across the country. 

On December 17, Interior authorities revealed that a coordinated, multi-agency security plan had been activated ahead of the festive period.

The plan includes the deployment of additional police officers, intensified patrols in crime-prone areas, and the activation of the National Multi-Agency Command Centre (NMACC). 

The command centre will oversee surveillance, intelligence sharing, and rapid response operations before, during, and after the holiday season.

Security officials have reassured Kenyans that law enforcement agencies are working closely to ensure public safety and prevent criminal activities during the celebrations.

Meanwhile, residents of Seme have expressed fear and anger following the killing, calling on the government to strengthen security in the area and bring the attackers to justice. 

Many described the incident as disturbing, noting that the loss of a trained security officer highlights the seriousness of the insecurity problem.