A murder suspect escaped from custody on Monday October 28, 2024 after reportedly overpowering a police officer at the Kitale Law Courts.
The suspect, Reuben Karakacha, was at the court for a mention of his murder case when he managed to slip away.
The dramatic escape prompted a full-scale manhunt, with police warning that Karakacha poses a serious threat to the public.
According to court sources, Karakacha had requested to use the latrine, escorted by a single officer. While there, he allegedly pounced on the guard, pushing past him and fleeing towards the nearby Chalala slums.
Witnesses reported seeing the suspect sprinting through the court’s perimeter, dodging attempts to intercept him as he vanished into the densely populated slum area.
Police have since mobilized units in and around Kitale, deploying officers to potential hideouts and setting up roadblocks on key routes leading out of the town.
Locals have been urged to remain vigilant and report any sightings of Karakacha, who is described as “armed and dangerous.”
Authorities say they are working closely with community leaders in Chalala to track down the fugitive.
The incident has raised serious concerns over suspect handling and security protocols in court precincts.
At the same time, questions have emerged as to why only one officer was tasked with guarding Karakacha, especially given the serious nature of his charges.
Some court officials argue that understaffing and lack of proper facilities have hampered effective security at the Kitale Law Courts.
Karakacha’s escape comes amid wider discussions on court security, particularly following the tragic June 13, 2024 incident at Makadara Law Courts in Nairobi.
In that case, Magistrate Monica Kivuti was fatally shot by a police officer while presiding over a session, bringing to light vulnerabilities in court safety.
As the manhunt continues, police are conducting an internal review to identify any procedural gaps that may have contributed to Karakacha’s escape.
Meanwhile, the Ministry of Interior has announced plans to strengthen security protocols for handling high-risk suspects, especially within court facilities.
Kenyans online expressed their frustration and distrust towards police officers tasked with securing suspects.
Many Kenyans on social media pointed to recurring incidents of security lapses, with some stating that these escapes reflect a lack of discipline and accountability within the force.
Others criticized the allocation of resources, arguing that despite frequent incidents, measures to improve court security seem insufficient.
“How does a murder suspect overpower a guard in court?
Are we even safe?” one user tweeted, echoing the sentiments of others who feel that the system lacks transparency.
‘The guard ate with the big spoon. Watu si wajinga buana!’ Otieno commented.
‘There’s nothing like escape. Unalipa pesa kidogo wanajifanya hawakuoni,” strategist tweeted.
