Chaos erupted in Kasipul on Wednesday after a police operation to capture murder suspects turned violent, leaving three Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) officers seriously injured and five suspects on the run—just days before the constituency’s hotly contested by-election.
According to police reports, the officers were ambushed by a mob of armed youths while attempting to arrest suspects hiding at the homestead of the late Kasipul MP Ong’ondo Were in Kachien Village, Central Kasipul Ward.
Among those injured was Rachuonyo South DCI boss Daniel Muhuhi. The officers had cornered the suspects when over 100 rowdy youths stormed the compound, locked the gate, and launched a violent attack using stones and crude weapons.
Despite firing warning shots and calling for backup, the officers were overpowered. The chaos allowed five arrested suspects to slip away, with one escaping while still wearing police handcuffs.
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem confirmed the incident, saying a massive manhunt is underway for both the escaped suspects and those who incited the attack.
The injured officers were rushed to Rachuonyo South Sub-County Hospital for treatment. Police have urged the suspect who fled with the handcuffs to surrender them at the nearest station.
The violent confrontation comes barely a week after two youths were killed in Oyugis during clashes between rival groups. With the Kasipul by-election scheduled for November 27, tension in the area remains high as security agencies intensify operations to restore calm and deliver justice.
By Star