A 22-year-old man, Brian Kibet, is in police custody following a dramatic incident in which he allegedly stole a loaded firearm from Kitale Police Station after disguising himself as a police officer.
According to preliminary police reports, the suspect arrived at the station’s main gate at around 9:30 PM wearing what appeared to be a police raincoat. He reportedly introduced himself to the night guard as a newly deployed officer from Eldoret, successfully gaining initial trust at the security post.
After a brief interaction, Kibet allegedly requested to be shown where he could buy food. During the movement within the station vicinity, he is said to have convinced an accompanying officer to temporarily hand over a Steyr rifle, claiming he needed to carry it briefly.
Authorities state that the suspect immediately took advantage of the situation, fleeing on a waiting motorcycle toward Kitale town with the firearm and 25 rounds of 9mm ammunition.
The officer involved reportedly did not raise an alarm until after the suspect had already escaped, allowing the suspect a critical head start.
A coordinated intelligence-led operation was launched shortly afterward, leading investigators to the Sibanga area, where Kibet was apprehended. Police also recovered the stolen rifle intact, still loaded with all 25 rounds of ammunition.
In connection with the incident, three officers have been taken into custody to assist with investigations. They include Cpl Jeremiah Rotich (station guard in charge), Ishmael Kimutai (night station guard), and PC Cornelius Kiplimo.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) unit in Trans Nzoia West is leading the probe into the circumstances surrounding the theft. Investigators are examining possible collusion by officers on duty, as well as whether the suspect used any form of deception or incapacitating method during the operation.
Authorities have described the incident as highly unusual given that it occurred within a secured police installation, raising concerns about internal security protocols and night-duty vigilance.
The suspect is expected to be arraigned in court once investigations are complete.
