Man who snatched police gun, killed two still unknown

Relatives of Martin Wasonga who was shot dead at Kisumu bus park on March 5, 2021.  [Collins Oduor, Standard]

Police are yet to identify the body of a man who snatched a gun from an officer and shot dead two people in Kisumu.

Still, no one has claimed the body of the man who injured several other people in the shooting near Kisumu bus station, in what police say could have been an act of terrorism.

Three national identity cards were found on his body after he was lynched when the pistol ran out of bullets. Police are unable to tell where he hailed from. Central Police Boss Peter Kattam yesterday said the man’s fingerprints had been sent for analysis, as they also pursue his associates.

“I cannot confirm if our detectives have arrested anyone, but we are pursuing some crucial leads. He had three national identity cards indicating he was from Nyakach, Winam and Ukwala,” said Mr Kattam.

In one of the IDs he is Glen Ochieng’ Ojwang’ - serial number 37170000 - and year of birth appearing as 2000. The second had Joseph Otieno Masaka, with serial number 30907236, while the third was Joseph Ondeng Mutula with serial number 4842454.

During the attack, the man wore a hood that left only his eyes visible. He also had gloves on both hands. Police said he disarmed a sergeant, who fought back but was overpowered. The criminal shot the officer on the pelvis with the bullet exiting through the stomach.

The officer was taken to Aga Khan Hospital in Kisumu in critical condition. Doctors say his condition is stable. 

Those shot dead were Martin Wasonga, a Ugandan aged 42, and Jared Ouma, 47. They were pronounced dead on arrival at Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Teaching and Referral Hospital.

Hezbon Okoth, 23, Lilian Awino, 35, and man only identified as Kashkin were shot. The family of Wasonga has demanded justice