Police launch investigation into cop's death in Kiminini

A police constable based at Mutangale police station in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, who died by suicide on Friday has been identified as Sam Mwebi.

According to sources at the station, the father of two attempted to turn a gun on himself on Thursday but was disarmed by his seniors.

Mwebi, 35, is, however, said to vowed to die by suicide despite counselling following the Thursday gun incident.

He was found dead on Friday in his room within the police staff quarters following a search after he failed to report to work.

"He picked a rifle and attempted to shoot himself but was restrained by a senior. He, however, vowed to end his life in a 'different way'," a colleague told the Standard.

Mwebi had reportedly separated from his wife and children, who relocated back to her parent's home in Waitaluk, after a disagreement. "I don't know of their differences, but he had vowed to end his life because of many, other, reasons," said the source.

A friend of the constable who spoke to the Standard on condition of anonymity said Mwebi was also troubled by the condition of his ailing mother and the death of his four brothers.

"He told me that he was bothered by the deaths of his brothers and sick mother. He was disturbed, but there is no time he hinted to me of his intention to die by suicide," said the friend.

Speaking to the Standard on Friday, OCPD John Onditi said Mwebi's body was moved to Kiminini cottage mortuary.

"He was expected to pick a police vehicle for official duty but when he failed to report to the station, his colleagues went to find out what happened. That is when his lifeless body was discovered in his house," said Onditi.

Investigations into the death are ongoing.