By Murugi Ndwiga
A murder suspect and former Kirimari Ward MCA aspirant was shot dead on Tuesday afternoon while attempting to escape from a moving prison vehicle in the Gatondo area, along the Embu–Siakago Roadin Embu-West.
The suspect, identified as Swaleh Abdalla, also known as Oswado, was among several inmates being transported back to prison after a court session in Siakago when he made a daring escape attempt.
Confirming the incident, Embu West Sub-County Police Commander Vincent Kitili said he received a report around 2 p.m. from the Embu North OCPD alerting him that one of the prisoners had fled.
“After receiving the call, I mobilised other officers. Fortunately, one officer in the prison van managed to pursue the suspect,” Kitili said.
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According to police reports, Abdalla had smuggled pepper into the van, which he used to momentarily blind the escorting officers, creating an opportunity to flee. Despite being ordered to stop, he continued running and reportedly issued threats to the pursuing officer.
The chase ended in an unfinished building, where Abdalla allegedly grabbed a panga and threatened the officer.
“The officer, sensing that his life was in immediate danger, opened fire and fatally shot the suspect,” Kitili said.
Additional officers arrived at the scene shortly after. Investigations are underway to determine how Abdalla managed to carry pepper into the vehicle and obtain the weapon during his escape.
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Kitili issued a stern warning to criminals in the region, stating that law enforcement in Embu West Sub-County remains vigilant and committed to stamping out criminal activity.
“We will not rest until wrongdoers are rooted out,” he stated.
The suspect’s body was taken to Embu Level 5 Hospital Mortuary as investigations continue.