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Thursday, July 14, 2016

Kapenguria OCS among cops killed by gunman in police station attack

The Kapenguria OCS was among several officers a gunman killed after grabbing an officer's gun and turning violent on Thursday.

West Pokot county commissioner Wilson Wanyanga said OCS Vitalis Ochido was killed alongside three other officers.

He could not verify the number of attackers but said security agents were still fighting them.

Inspector General of Police Joseph Boinnet said the attacker had been arrested over terror links.

Reports indicated the man was arrested on Wednesday at Nakwijit area in North Pokot subcounty and was to be taken to court this morning.

He snatched the gun belonging to a Report Office officer who opened a cell for roll call and opened fire.

The suspect is believed to have been recruiting county youths to join terror group al Shabaab.

Boinnet said in a statement: "His attempts to escape were thwarted by the quick arrival of officers from General Duty, Quick Reaction Team and GSU, who have surrounded the station."

He said the number of casualties had not been confirmed and added that the elite Hostage Rescue Team was sent to rescue prisoners and end the stand off.

Unconfirmed reports indicated the attacker was being backed by other militants who raided the station early in the morning.

Boinnet did not confirm this but Wanyanga said: “Nobody can confirm what transpired since those who had information are dead. We are waiting reinforcement so as to unveil the truth."

The gunman has reportedly been holding some of the officers hostage since taking over the station and is still shooting.

A Star reporter said: "The reinforcement team cannot access the station because the gunman has been shooting haphazardly."

A chopper with more police officers and a helicopter with members of the GSU Recce squad have landed at the location.

Police spokesperson Charles Owino had confirmed "serious exchange" but did not give details.

Schools near the police station have been closed.


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