Kitui County, Kenya . A shocking incident unfolded on Sunday night at Kanyonyoo market in Kitui County, where a police officer allegedly shot and killed his girlfriend and her female friend during a bar alteration.
Officer Leaves Duty Post Armed with Rifle
The officer, reportedly on duty at the report office, left his station without authorization, carrying an AK-47 rifle. According to witness accounts and preliminary police reports, the officer had a heated altercation earlier in the day with his girlfriend, Joy Mutisya, over undisclosed issues.
He later confronted her at a local bar where she was socializing. Alarmed patrons noticed the officer was in uniform and visibly armed, raising immediate panic.
Victims Flee, But Tragedy Unfolds
Joy fled the bar to seek refuge at a nearby house belonging to her friend, identified only as Judy. The officer pursued her and opened fire inside the residence, fatally shooting both women before fleeing on foot.
Responding officers recovered two spent cartridges from the scene. The bodies were taken to Kitui Level Five Hospital Mortuary for postmortem examinations.
Rifle Recovered, Officer Still at Large
The suspect later contacted his superiors, revealing he had abandoned his rifle, still loaded with 26 rounds, in a thicket along Matuu Road. While the weapon was successfully recovered, the officer managed to evade capture, disappearing into nearby bushes.
A multi-agency manhunt is ongoing to apprehend him.
National Concerns Over Police Mental Health
This tragic shooting underscores growing concerns over mental health struggles within Kenya’s police force. The National Police Service Commission (NPSC) has previously flagged trauma, substance abuse, and stress as key challenges affecting officers’ well-being.
To address the crisis, the NPSC has rolled out a dedicated counselling and wellness program, aiming to support officers dealing with personal and professional pressure.
“Mental health is no longer a hidden crisis—it’s a national concern we must prioritize,” noted a senior officer familiar with the investigation.
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If you or someone you know is in distress, please contact the National Helpline for mental health support or seek help from trusted medical professionals
