Written by Were Kelly
Nakuru, Kenya – Ten police officers are in custody following a botched operation to recover a stash of bhang in Nakuru’s London Estate that left one civilian dead and triggered unrest in the community.
The operation turned deadly on Monday when officers, acting on intelligence from a suspected drug mule, raided a house believed to be a hub for marijuana trafficking.
The mission quickly escalated after three suspects were arrested, drawing the ire of residents who reportedly wield significant influence in the area.
According to police reports, the officers were initially on routine patrol in Nakuru town when they arrested a known drug peddler.
During interrogation, the suspect allegedly offered to lead them to his suppliers in the London Estate.
Upon arrival at the location, the officers arrested three more individuals believed to be key figures in the local drug trade.
However, tensions flared when a crowd of residents mobilised, demanding the release of the suspects.
Witnesses reported that the situation spiraled into chaos as residents began hurling stones at the officers.
In the ensuing standoff, police fired into the air to disperse the mob. Amid the melee, one local man was fatally shot in the mouth, dying on the spot.
The shooting sparked outrage in the community, with residents barricading roads and lighting bonfires in protest.
The unrest culminated in a dramatic scene at Nakuru Teaching and Referral Hospital, where a group of irate youths stormed the facility, demanding the release of the victim’s body.
Following the incident, Nakuru County Police Commander Michael Mwaura confirmed that all ten officers involved had been arrested and disarmed.
Their weapons have been submitted for ballistic testing to determine who fired the fatal shot.
“All officers have been subjected to investigations. The firearms have been taken for ballistic analysis. All officers are under arrest,” Mwaura said, adding that an identification parade would be conducted on Tuesday, June 10, to assist with the probe.
One officer was also injured during the confrontation and is currently receiving medical treatment.
Authorities say the incident is under active investigation, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) is expected to join the inquiry.
