A magistrate and suspects scampered for safety when an Administration Police officer opened fire on an open court session in Kathangachini market, Tharaka Nithi County.
The policeman stormed the venue armed with a G-3 rifle and fired in the air twice, scaring residents who had attended the court session, before rushing to the market where he dispersed traders as he fired several times in the air.
The AP officer's colleagues had a hard time trying to disarm him as he became uncontrollable.
Five suspects facing criminal charges escaped but two were later arrested.
Gatunga OCPD Hesbon Kadenge said it was not clear why the officer fired his gun.
READ MORE
Former Tharaka Nithi woman rep is dead
With USAID's support, Gatunga village in Tharaka Nithi opens Sh58 million community library
Governor Muthomi Njuki rallies residents to enroll for SHA
Why Rumuruti officials affirm another future is possible for our beloved land
"However, we are investigating to establish the motive behind the shooting after which we will take him to court," he said.
The incident comes barely a month after another officer based at Gatunga Police Station stabbed a colleague twice with a knife.
