A senior Kenyan police officer was shot dead after opening fire on a magistrate during a court session in Nairobi. The shocking incident occurred shortly after the magistrate made a ruling in a case involving the officer’s wife.
Attack on Magistrate
Chief Inspector Samson Kipchirchir Kipruto, who oversaw a police station in Londiani, western Kenya, shot Makadara Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti in response to her decision to cancel his wife’s bail. The officer’s wife had absconded, leading to the bail revocation.
Immediate Response
Following the shooting of Magistrate Kivuti, who sustained injuries to her hip, other officers present in the courtroom quickly responded. One of the officers shot and killed Kipruto, ending the violent outburst.
Injuries and Hospitalization
In the course of the incident, three other officers were injured. Both the magistrate and the injured officers are currently receiving medical treatment in the hospital.
Judicial Statement
The judiciary released a statement explaining the magistrate’s decision to cancel the bail. It highlighted that the accused had failed to provide satisfactory explanations for absconding, prompting the bond cancellation. The judiciary confirmed that the shooting occurred immediately following the pronouncement of this decision.
This tragic event underscores the volatility and risks present in judicial settings and has sparked discussions on courtroom security and the pressures faced by law enforcement officers.
