There was drama at a hotel in Kericho town on Thursday night after a police officer threw a teargas canister into the establishment, causing panic.
The officer, who was accompanied by a woman and dressed in civilian clothing, began harassing other customers who were peacefully enjoying their meals, according to eyewitnesses. He was believed to be intoxicated at the time.
The hotel management and angry patrons confronted the officer over his rude behavior. Instead of de-escalating the situation, he reportedly became physically aggressive and attempted to attack the staff. However, with the combined help of some customers, the staff managed to subdue him and eject him from the premises.
The officer then reportedly threatened to return with a firearm from the nearby station to which he was attached and shoot those involved. He left the scene on a motorcycle.
Shortly afterward, he returned with a teargas canister, which he manually hurled into the hotel. Panic quickly spread throughout the establishment as patrons feared they were under attack. Some hid under tables while others rushed for the exits, nearly causing a stampede. Those who remained inside coughed and gagged as they struggled to breathe due to the teargas.
The officer then reportedly got on another motorcycle and fled the scene. His whereabouts remain unknown. As of now, no statement has been released by senior police officials in Kericho County, while members of the public are expressing outrage over the officer’s conduct.
– By Anthony Mwangi
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