Two Police Officers Arrested Over Alleged Slaughter of Stolen Cow in Kaptagat
Tuesday’s incident ignited anger among residents, who reacted by barricading Kaptagat Road and vandalizing signage leading to the police station.
Two police officers stationed at Kaptagat Police Station in Keiyo South, Elgeyo Marakwet County, have been arrested following accusations of involvement in the slaughter of a stolen cow.
The incident, sparked outrage among residents who stormed the police station demanding answers and justice.
According to an incident report filed under OB 29/16/12/2024 at 2200hrs, Josphine Kandie reported that her cows had gone missing at around 6:00 PM. A short while later, she received information that a cow was being slaughtered within the police station compound. Sensing the approach of angry members of the public, those involved reportedly fled the scene before they could be apprehended.
The Sub-County Police Commander (SCPC) Keiyo South, the Sub-County Criminal Investigations Officer (SCCIO) Keiyo South, and the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) Kaptagat visited the scene to assess the situation. The scene was processed and documented as per protocol.
However, tensions remained high as the situation grew rowdy, with residents demanding accountability. The intervention of the area MCA helped contain the crowd, though frustrations lingered among locals who felt betrayed by the very officers tasked with protecting them.
The two officers arrested at the scene, identified as No. 117047 PC Christpus Butali and No. 125908 PC Samuel Mbugua Njuguna, are suspected of being directly involved in the illegal slaughter. Allegations have surfaced that the two officers have been operating a butchery at Kipkorgot Trading Centre, raising suspicions that they could be part of a wider livestock theft ring in the area.
Residents claim that cases of missing cows have become increasingly common, with many animals disappearing under mysterious circumstances, only to be traced back to individuals associated with the police station.
Tuesday’s incident ignited anger among residents, who reacted by barricading Kaptagat Road and vandalizing signage leading to the police station. Protestors accused the police of failing in their duties and actively participating in criminal activities.
One of the residents voiced their frustrations, saying, “This has been going on for far too long. We trusted the police to protect us, but instead, they are behind these crimes. We won’t rest until justice is served.”
The growing distrust between the community and local law enforcement has further escalated tensions in the area. Residents are demanding that thorough investigations be conducted, and stern action taken against those found guilty. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Keiyo South has taken over the case, with authorities vowing to uncover the full extent of the officers’ involvement in the illegal activities.
The arrests have brought to light deeper issues of police misconduct and accountability, with locals insisting on transparency as investigations progress. This incident has become a rallying cry for residents who say they are fed up with corruption and impunity in law enforcement.
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