HOMA BAY, Kenya — Police in Homa Bay County have successfully recovered the firearm that was snatched from the bodyguard of Homa Bay Town MP Peter Kaluma during the violent disruptions at the ongoing Kasipul constituency by-election.
The weapon, which was taken during a fracas at Agoro Sare Primary School in Oyugis town, was found abandoned after security forces intensified their operations in the area.
The theft occurred earlier on Thursday when a group of youths assaulted the MP and his security detail, accusing the legislator of interfering with the voting process.
Both Kaluma and his bodyguard sustained injuries during the confrontation.
Intelligence-led recovery
Homa Bay County Police Commander Lawrence Koilem confirmed that the recovery was made possible through swift action based on intelligence reports provided by informers.
“It was dropped on the ground. We also recovered the ammunition from the gun,” Koilem said.
Authorities have announced that the firearm will now undergo a comprehensive forensic examination to determine if it was discharged or used in any criminal activity during the period it was missing.
Crackdown on armed gangs
The incident had sparked significant tension in the region, prompting a rapid police response to restore order.
Commander Koilem revealed that security officers launched a crackdown that resulted in the arrest of over 20 suspects who were intercepted while ferrying offensive weapons.
The suspects are currently detained at Oyugis Police Station as investigations continue.
“We also impounded 15 vehicles and two motorcycles that the youths were using. The youths had machetes, knives and other metals. The area is now calm,” Koilem added.
