According to available news reports, a police officer has been arrested following a tragic shooting incident that claimed the life of a woman during a night vigil held in honour of the late former Prime Minister Raila Odinga in Homa Bay County on Thursday night. The peaceful vigil had been organized by residents to pay their last respects to the veteran opposition leader, but the event ended in sorrow after gunshots were fired, leaving one woman dead and several others in shock.
Eyewitnesses say the vigil was taking place near the town centre when a group of police officers arrived to monitor the gathering. It is alleged that one officer, whose identity has not yet been made public, discharged his firearm under unclear circumstances. The bullet reportedly struck a woman who was among those singing and lighting candles for Raila Odinga. Attempts by locals to save her life were unsuccessful, and she was pronounced dead upon arrival at a nearby hospital.
Confirming the incident, Homa Bay Sub-County Police Commander Jashon Polloh said the officer involved in the shooting had been disarmed and taken into custody. He added that the matter had been reported to the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA), which has already launched an investigation to determine the exact circumstances that led to the fatal shooting. Polloh assured the public that justice would be served and that the officer would face legal action if found responsible.
The death has sparked anger and grief among Homa Bay residents and supporters of Raila Odinga, who described the incident as unnecessary and painful. Many took to social media to condemn the act and called for accountability from the police service. Community leaders have also urged calm as investigations continue, appealing to the public not to engage in violence or revenge.
The Independent Policing Oversight Authority is expected to release a detailed report once investigations are complete. Meanwhile, the deceased woman’s body has been moved to the Homa Bay County Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary as her family awaits justice.
By Nation