A police officer from Rabai, Kilifi County, who had gone missing along with his G3 rifle and 20 rounds of ammunition, was apprehended hours later following an intense search operation. The weapon was recovered at the officer’s initial workplace, where he had left it before disappearing.
On the morning of Friday, September 6, the officer failed to return to his duty station at the Rabai Kenya Power station after completing a night shift. The head of the armoury noticed the missing weapon and attempted to contact the officer, who claimed he had left the rifle under some containers at the site.
The officer also mentioned he was attending an urgent meeting at his rural home in Meru. A search was conducted, but the rifle was not found at that time. Following his disappearance, authorities traced him and arrested him at the Mariakani weighbridge while he was traveling in a public service vehicle. He was subsequently brought back to retrieve the rifle.
The officer is currently in custody pending internal disciplinary actions. The reason behind his unauthorized departure remains unclear, though there are speculations that it may be linked to personal trauma.
This incident is part of a concerning trend among police officers, who are increasingly facing mental health challenges. Reports indicate a rise in traumatic stress within the force, with several officers experiencing severe mental health issues. Over recent years, there has been a notable increase in deaths among officers due to suicide or related issues.
In response to these growing concerns, police authorities have introduced counseling services and established a dedicated unit within the National Police Service Commission to address mental health and substance abuse issues. This unit is tasked with evaluating, designing, and leading outreach programs aimed at preventing mental health crises among officers.
Currently, there are at least three reported cases of suicide involving police officers each month, highlighting the urgent need for comprehensive mental health support within the force.
