Police in Machakos have initiated a probe into the apparent suicide of a local tout, who was found dead inside a makeshift cell shortly after being apprehended by Machakos County Inspectorate officers, commonly known as Kanjos, at the bustling Machakos bus terminus.
Eyewitnesses reported that the middle-aged man had been apprehended by the Kanjos for the third time consecutively and was discovered lifeless shortly after being confined in the cell.
The circumstances surrounding his death have raised suspicion among onlookers, who questioned the manner in which he was placed in the cell.
Tension escalated rapidly, prompting police intervention to pacify the enraged crowd demanding clarification from the county askaris, who had seemingly disappeared from the scene.
Machakos Chief of Staff Lawrence Ngovi acknowledged the incident and urged for calm as investigations into the matter commence.
The incident brought operations to a halt at the bustling bus station, as agitated residents sought clarity on the events leading to the tout’s demise.
Machakos County Secretary Muya Ndambuki disclosed that the county government had suspended the officer implicated in the incident pending the outcome of the investigation.
The deceased’s remains were transported to the Machakos Level five morgue for further examination and to facilitate the ongoing investigation.
The situation has sparked concerns within the community, with many demanding transparency and accountability from the authorities.
As the investigation unfolds, residents remain on edge, awaiting answers regarding the tragic demise of the local tout.