Cases of police officers being implicated in criminal activities have been on the rise, with the latest incidents involving the arrest of three officers in separate cases. One officer was detained in Nakuru for losing his firearm under unclear circumstances, while two others were arrested in Nairobi for attempting a violent robbery.
In Nakuru, a police officer based in Kaptembwo was taken into custody after failing to return his AK47 rifle to the armoury on the night of February 17, 2025. Authorities revealed that the officer, along with a colleague, had checked out weapons for routine patrols. However, when the shift ended, he failed to return his firearm, raising concerns.
The officer later reported that he had made a stop at his residence in the area during patrols. He claimed to have encountered individuals in the Mosaik area who introduced themselves as fellow officers. They accompanied him to a bar, where they consumed drinks before proceeding to his house. According to his statement, he blacked out and awoke the following morning to find the strangers gone and his rifle missing.
Following his report, law enforcement officers conducted a search but were unable to locate the missing weapon. Investigators suspect that the officer may have been drugged to facilitate the theft of his firearm. The search for the stolen rifle remains ongoing as authorities seek to unravel the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Meanwhile, in Nairobi, two officers from the General Service Unit (GSU) headquarters were arrested alongside a civilian for their involvement in an attempted robbery along the Githurai-Soweto railway line. The officers were allegedly caught in the act on the night of February 17, assaulting a man and trying to rob him of his belongings.
A routine police patrol team happened upon the crime scene and immediately intervened, apprehending the suspects and rescuing the victim. The trio was then taken to Githurai Police Post for further questioning. The arrested officers have denied the allegations, but investigations are ongoing.
These incidents highlight the increasing concern over police officers engaging in criminal activities. Such cases erode public trust in law enforcement and raise questions about discipline and accountability within the force. Authorities have reiterated their commitment to taking firm action against any officer found engaging in criminal acts.
As investigations continue, the public awaits the outcome of these cases, with many calling for stricter measures to prevent rogue officers from tarnishing the reputation of the police service.