Five individuals have been arrested in connection with the brutal murder of Police Constable Rodgers Odhiambo, which occurred on Monday night. Lamu County Commissioner Irungu Macharia confirmed the arrests, revealing that among those detained is a close friend of the deceased officer. According to Macharia, this friend had contacted Odhiambo on the night of the incident, luring him to a meeting where he was subsequently ambushed by three assailants wielding pangas, knives, and clubs.
The attack was vicious, leaving Constable Odhiambo, who was stationed at the Tchundwa police post, with severe injuries to his head, face, neck, and limbs. The attackers fled the scene, leaving him for dead. The police have since intensified their investigations, taking into custody not only the friend but also some of Odhiambo's relatives and the owners of the homestead where he resided. These individuals are expected to assist the security agencies with their inquiries as the crackdown continues in Tchundwa village and its surrounding areas.
Commissioner Macharia, speaking to the media in Lamu town, urged the public to cooperate with the police by providing any information that could lead to the apprehension of more suspects involved in the heinous crime. He emphasized the importance of community collaboration in ensuring justice for the slain officer.
In light of the incident, Macharia issued a stern warning to residents across Lamu County against carrying weapons such as machetes and knives in public, reiterating that it is illegal. He disclosed that the police have been instructed to arrest anyone found in possession of such weapons in public spaces. This directive follows a recent operation where approximately 40 youths were apprehended while armed with machetes in Tchundwa, Mbwajumwali, and other nearby villages. Macharia stressed the need for adherence to the existing ban on crude weapons in public places to prevent further violence.
Furthermore, he cautioned locals against taking the law into their own hands, urging them to rely on law enforcement agencies to handle disputes and criminal activities. The murder of Constable Odhiambo has sent shockwaves through the community, highlighting the ongoing challenges of maintaining security and order in the region. The authorities remain committed to bringing those responsible to justice and ensuring the safety of all residents.
