Police in Nairobi are investigating a tragic incident in which a police officer was stabbed to death during a suspected robbery in Dandora Phase Three.
Officer Layford Gitonga Killed
The slain officer has been identified as Constable Layford Gitonga, who was attached to Dandora Police Station. According to a police report, Gitonga was off duty at the time of the incident, which occurred at around 1:00 am on Saturday.
His body was discovered with a stab wound to the chest, and he was pronounced dead at the scene.
Robbery Gone Wrong
Preliminary investigations suggest that the officer was accosted by unknown assailants who attempted to rob him. Gitonga is believed to have resisted the attackers, leading to a fatal confrontation. His mobile phone was stolen during the altercation.
The suspects reportedly fled toward the Dandora dumpsite, a notoriously crime-prone area, and remain at large as of this report.
“We are working around the clock to identify and arrest the culprits behind this heinous act,” a senior officer told The Standard on condition of anonymity.
Body Moved to Mortuary
Gitonga’s body was moved to the City Mortuary for autopsy and further investigation. The motive of the attack is suspected to be robbery, although detectives have not ruled out other possibilities.
Dandora’s Security Concerns
Dandora, particularly Phase Three, has long struggled with insecurity and high crime rates, with frequent reports of muggings, assaults, and robberies. The area near the Dandora dumpsite is especially dangerous, often cited in reports by both local media and international agencies like UN-Habitat for its connection to urban poverty and crime.
The killing of a law enforcement officer in such a hotspot underscores growing concerns about safety and the need for enhanced community policing in Nairobi’s informal settlements.
Police Call for Information
The Kenya Police Service has urged the public to come forward with any information that may help trace the attackers. Tip-offs can be made anonymously via the DCI hotline or at the nearest police station.
For ongoing updates and breaking crime news in Nairobi, follow our dedicated Crime & Security section on Sauce.co.ke.
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