A police commander died after an explosive device he was detonating went off in Lokichar, Turkana North, on Monday, May 30, 2022.
Another man also sustained serious injuries in the accident that occurred at Kasepur camp on Monday evening.
Police confirm
Police reports indicate the deceased, Gabriel Wanjala, was part of a team of experts called to destroy the explosive at the facility being managed by the Tullow Oil Company.
The explosives were being used by the multinational oil and gas exploration company during the mining process.
A source, who spoke to K24 Digital on condition of anonymity, said the ballistic experts did not follow the set rules and regulations for destroying the explosives.
“We are sad as residents of Lokichar… The ballistic experts who came to destroy the explosives are very ignorant. They are supposed to compensate the family for their assumptions and arrogance,” she added.
While expressing their sorrow, residents of Lokichar said they have lost a friend who served locals with compassion.
“He has been a good officer and we had been used to him. When you’re hungry he could buy you food. We have lost a good friend. You could never tell that he was a police commander… He associated with everyone without discrimination,” John Koriken said.
The body of the commander was taken to Lodwar Referral Hospital awaiting autopsy while the injured man was transferred to Nairobi for specialized medical care.
