Police officer killed in Rarieda, firearm stolen

The police lost his pistol after it was allegedly snatched from him.[Silas Otieno, Standard]

A police officer was on Wednesday stoned to death in Rarieda Sub-County during an operation to recover suspected illicit liquor.

Inspector Simon Mwangi Kariuki and another officer were attacked by villagers after they reportedly arrested a suspected illicit brew dealer in the area.

Kariuki lost his Ceska pistol with an unknown number of ammunition after it was allegedly snatched from him during the incident.

According to a police report, a team of police officers was later sent to the area to recover the weapon and arrest those behind the fatal attack.

His colleague, Wilfred Maina managed to escape with injuries on his right shoulder.

Kariuki's body was removed to Lwak Mission Hospital Mortuary, awaiting postmortem.

Confirming the incident, Siaya County Police Commander Cleti Kimaiyo said one suspect was arrested and is assisting police with investigations.

"The search for the missing firearm and more suspects is ongoing," said Kimaiyo.