By Michelle Ndaga
Detectives from the Operations Support Unit (OSU) have arrested four law enforcement officers suspected of running an illegal arms and ammunition racket linked to insecurity and violence across the country.
The suspects, who have been under surveillance for several weeks, include Assistant Superintendent of Prisons Ekidor Lotira Charles (based in Turkana), Corporal Isaac Kipngetich (attached to Turkana County Police Headquarters), Police Constable Ileli Cyrus Kisamwa (an armorer at the Central Firearms Stores in Industrial Area), and Constable Samson Muriithi Mutongu (a storeman at the same facility).
The breakthrough came after Cpl. Kipngetich was intercepted receiving a consignment of 1,000 rounds of ammunition from Constables Ileli and Mutongu, which was reportedly destined for ASP Lotira.
Acting on further intelligence, detectives arrested Mutongu, recovering 19 assorted firearm magazines, firing pins, cleaning kits, and three spent 9mm cartridges. Constable Ileli was also arrested in possession of a Remington Rand Model 1911 pistol and two Ceska pistol firing pins.
All four suspects are in custody and are set to be arraigned on Monday, September 29, 2025.
In a statement, the National Police Service (NPS) condemned the officers’ alleged involvement, stressing that betrayal of public trust through the illegal arms trade would not be tolerated. “We remain committed to dismantling networks that fuel crime and violence and will pursue any individual regardless of rank who undermines national security,” the NPS said.
The arrests mark a significant step in efforts to curb the proliferation of illicit firearms, which authorities warn have fueled banditry, armed robberies, and intercommunal violence in parts of the country.
