A police officer from Kamukunji Police Station escaped death by a whisker after a colleague fired at him in a dramatic confrontation early Wednesday, March 26 morning.

According to a police report, Police Constables (PC) Piro Mwarsho, Jin Ouma and Bernard Muroti were on patrol within Muthurwa area at around 2:20 am.

Mwarso reportedly excused himself to retrieve his phone, which he had left charging at a local bar around.

At the bar, Mwarso reportedly encountered PC Juma who accused him of having an affair with his girlfriend. The confrontation escalated quickly. Witnesses say PC Juma slapped his colleague before cocking his AK-47 rifle and fired a shot.

“The bullet missed him by inches, hitting a metallic wall and a tube grill,” a report booked under OB No. 02/26/03/2025 reads in part.

Panic gripped the bar as revelers ducked for cover. PC Mwarso managed to escape and rushed to Kamukunji Police Station to report the incident. Meanwhile, the PC Juma fled the scene with his firearm.

A team from Kamukunji Police Station visited the scene as investigations began. Hours later, PC Juma surrendered and was taken into custody. His rifle was confiscated as an exhibit.

Nairobi Police Commander George Sedah confirmed the arrest, stating that investigations are ongoing. “We are looking into what provoked the shooting,” he said.

The incident has reignited concerns over mental health among police officers. Authorities say trauma, stress and personal struggles often push officers to the edge, leading to violent outbursts or suicide.

In response, the National Police Service Commission has set up a dedicated counseling unit. “The unit will provide psychological support, address substance abuse and run outreach programs to help officers cope with the pressures of duty,” Sedah noted.