Panic and confusion gripped a hotel in Kericho town on Thursday night after a rogue police officer, reportedly intoxicated and off duty, threw a teargas canister into the crowded establishment, sending customers and staff into a frenzy.
According to eyewitnesses, the drama began when the officer, dressed in civilian clothing and believed to be attached to a local police station, entered the hotel accompanied by a woman. Soon after settling in, he began harassing customers, disrupting those peacefully enjoying their meals and tea.
Hotel staff and patrons confronted the officer, demanding to know his identity and reason for the misconduct. Rather than calming down, he reportedly grew aggressive and attempted to assault staff, but was quickly overpowered by members of the public and ejected from the premises.
As tensions eased, the officer allegedly threatened to return with a firearm and shoot those involved in the scuffle. Moments later, he left on a boda boda, only to return shortly afterward, this time with a teargas canister.
Without warning, he hurled the canister into the packed hotel, triggering mass panic. Many patrons, believing they were under attack, dove under tables or stampeded toward the exits. Others were left coughing and gasping for air as the choking gas filled the room.
“It was like a war zone,” said one shaken customer. “People were screaming and pushing. Some nearly got trampled.”
After the attack, the officer once again fled the scene on a waiting motorcycle. Victims scrambled for water and fresh air, with several suffering minor respiratory distress.
By Friday morning, senior police officials in Kericho County had yet to issue an official statement, though internal investigations are expected. The officer’s identity remains unconfirmed, and authorities are under pressure to bring him to justice.
The incident has sparked outrage among locals, with many demanding disciplinary action and assurances of safety from rogue officers.
Written By Rodney Mbua
