Police Officer Among 5 Suspected Thieves Lynched Over Bank Robbery in Kericho
Kericho County, Kenya, February 17, 2026: Five suspected thieves, including an alleged police officer, were killed by a mob in Kericho County after being accused of stealing Ksh 1.2 million from a businessman. The victim had reportedly withdrawn the funds from a local bank when the suspects allegedly trailed him within Soin and Sigowet sub-counties.
Details of the Incident
Police investigations indicate that the stolen amount is estimated between Ksh 1.1 million and Ksh 1.5 million, though authorities are still verifying the exact figure. Images and videos from the scene showed that one of the suspects carried a police job card with the rank of corporal, though its authenticity has not been independently confirmed. Another suspect was found with an Auctioneers Licensing Board certificate and a matching national identity card.
Local sources suggest that one of the suspects may have been attached to Koru Police Station.
How the Suspects Were Intercepted
Soin Police Commander Lawrence Kisini confirmed that officers acted swiftly after receiving public tips. According to Commander Kisini:
- Two suspects were cornered and killed in Kejiriet village.
- Three others were intercepted in Kibugat village, Kipsitet.
Authorities recovered several items from the suspects, including walkie-talkies, two vehicle number plates, and a toy revolver made of plastic. The two number plates suggested attempts to disguise the vehicle’s identity.
Commander Kisini noted:
“There were two number plates, one on the vehicle and another hidden inside it. They also had a toy pistol resembling a revolver.”
Context: Gang Activity in the Area
Local reports indicate that criminal gangs have been using Toyota Probox vehicles to target motorists along the Kipsitet Junction–Muhoroni stretch, raising security concerns in the region.
Police have urged the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity while investigations into the incident continue.