A quiet night turned tense for residents near Musanda Police Station after a violent incident left several people injured and police weapons missing.
The attack happened late on Friday and raised concern among officers and civilians living around the patrol base in Mumias West, within Kakamega County.
According to a police report, trouble began when six men arrived at the station riding two motorcycles. They told officers that their motorcycle had been stolen in Sigomere and appeared to be seeking help.
At the time, Brian Kipngetich was inside his house within the patrol base. He recorded the report at around 9pm and did not sense immediate danger.
Moments later, noise and shouting were heard within the station compound. This was quickly followed by a gunshot, causing panic among those nearby. Kipngetich later said that during the confusion, one of the attackers spoke briefly, suggesting they were looking for another person.
Soon after, Kipngetich was shot on the left side of the head. Despite his injury, he managed to retreat back into his house to seek safety.
Other officers responded after hearing the gunfire. When they arrived at the scene in Mukhuwa Location, they found Richard Utolo lying unconscious on the ground. He had a visible injury to his chin and was bleeding heavily.
Officers rushed him to hospital, where he remains admitted in serious condition.
Two other people were also hurt during the incident. Kipngetich suffered a minor head injury, while Finace Abura was wounded on his left ear.
His wife, Mary Omondi, who was present during the attack, sustained injuries to her head and right hand. The injured officers were taken to Bungoma West Hospital, where they are receiving treatment.
Police later confirmed that two G3 rifles were stolen during the attack. Each rifle was loaded with 20 rounds of ammunition. Investigators who visited the scene found blood stains inside the officers’ houses, showing signs of struggle.
Two crowbars were also recovered and are believed to have been used to break into a steel box during the raid.
Senior officers from the sub-county visited the station to assess the situation and begin investigations.
Police say a search operation is ongoing to recover the stolen rifles and any spent cartridges. Authorities have assured the public that efforts are being made to track down those responsible and restore calm in the area.
