A Mombasa County enforcement officer was killed and three others injured during an early morning raid by armed men at a checkpoint in Likoni on Monday. The attackers overwhelmed the checkpoint crew and seized an AK-47 rifle loaded with 30 rounds of ammunition.
The violent confrontation unfolded at approximately 3:40 a.m. along Barabara ya Mchanga, where local county enforcement officers and two Administration Police officers were stationed at a cess collection point. According to police reports, a group of about five armed individuals confronted the personnel, triggering a sudden struggle that quickly escalated into gunfire.
Gunmen Overpower Officers in Likoni
During the assault, the assailants targeted the officers on duty and managed to seize a rifle from an Administration Police officer. Police officers attempted to push back the gang by firing several warning shots into the air, but the defenders were ultimately overpowered during the close-quarters clash.
The attackers used the stolen firearm against the personnel. Officer Omari Mzerera, a county enforcement officer, was shot in the back. The bullet exited through his chest, and a doctor confirmed his death. His body was subsequently transferred to the Coast General mortuary. Another county enforcement officer sustained deep cuts to his head and right thigh, while a third managed to escape the scene uninjured.
Treating Wounded Personnel at Diani Beach Hospital
Three surviving members of the checkpoint detail sustained serious injuries during the struggle. An Administration Police officer suffered deep cuts to his hand alongside a gunshot wound to his left thigh after his weapon was turned on him.
The wounded personnel were rushed to Diani Beach Hospital for emergency medical treatment. Mombasa County Police Commander Stella Cherono provided an update on their condition while addressing the violent incident.
One of our officers was injured, and a county enforcement officer was also attacked. Unfortunately, we lost one.
Commander Stella Cherono, Mombasa County Police Commander
Detectives Hunt for the Stolen AK-47 Rifle
Investigators and crime scene teams deployed to Barabara ya Mchanga to document evidence, gather clues, and trace the assailants. Authorities are working to determine the precise size of the gang and uncover the underlying motive behind the raid.
We want to establish the number of criminals who were there and what led to the attack. Our investigations will give us that information.
Commander Stella Cherono, Mombasa County Police Commander
Law enforcement officials are prioritizing the recovery of the missing AK-47 rifle and its 30 rounds of ammunition. Commander Stella Cherono appealed directly to members of the local community to share any information that could help identify the attackers or lead to their arrest.
Police confirmed that no formal link between Monday’s checkpoint assault and terrorism has been established at this stage of the inquiry.