Manhunt on for suspect who attacked police officer, fled with AK-47 rifle in Kisumu

Police in Kisumu West sub-county have launched a manhunt for a suspect who attacked a traffic police officer and escaped with his AK 47 rifle along the Kisian-Bondo road on Friday afternoon.

The traffic officer, alongside his colleague, was manning a roadblock at Kanyawegi area near Wema academy when the suspect attacked him from behind, hitting his head with a rod.

According to a police report seen by Citizen Digital, the suspect accosted the officer as he inspected a lorry and grabbed the rifle.

The suspect then dashed into the nearby thicket with the AK-47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition as he fired at the officers.

Police say that one of the officers put up a chase and fired 29 rounds of ammunition but the suspect managed to escape with the rifle.

A heavy police presence has been deployed in the area led by Kisumu West sub-county Police Commander David Nyabuto in pursuit of the unknown lone assailant.

Following the attack, the officer sustained head injuries and was rushed to Chulaimbo sub-county hospital for treatment but has since been discharged.