Kenya, March 4 -- A Nairobi court has ordered the detention of Police Constable Kipkoech Tarus for seven days as investigations continue into the killing of his colleague, Raphael Kimuli Wambua.
Tarus, who serves in the VIP protection unit for Safaricom CEO Peter Ndegwa, allegedly shot Wambua on February 21 while he was walking home with his brother, Police Constable Erick Ngolania.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) had sought a 14-day detention, citing pending forensic analysis of the firearm and spent cartridges, as well as the need for witness statements and a psychiatric assessment.
Milimani Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina granted the seven-day detention, noting the seriousness of the allegations and the risk of interference with investigations.
Tarus, who was reportedly assaulted by members of the public after the incident, will remain at Ruaraka Police Station until the case is mentioned on March 11.
Reports indicate that the two brothers had been at Wasafi Bar in Ruaraka, watching football and drinking until around 1:20 AM on February 22, when they began their walk home.
It was during this time that Tarus allegedly attacked them and fatally shot Raphael Kimuli Wambua with his Jericho pistol (serial number KP 44338440).
The specific motive behind the shooting remains unclear, though some reports suggest an altercation or quarrel preceded the incident.
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Bana Kenya.