Thirteen inmates, including Collins Jumaisi, the prime suspect in the Kware murders, escaped from Gigiri Police Station in Nairobi early on August 20, 2024.
This incident has raised serious concerns regarding security protocols at the facility and has triggered a manhunt for the escapees.
Police discovered the escape when they attempted to wake the inmates for their morning tea. Reports indicate that the inmates cut through a wire mesh and scaled the perimeter wall to flee.
This breach of security has led to significant scrutiny of the officers on duty at the time. Many are questioning how such a lapse could occur, especially with a high-profile suspect like Jumaisi in custody.
Jumaisi, accused of confessing to the murders of multiple women, was awaiting a court appearance when he escaped.
Authorities had transferred his co-accused, Amos Momanyi and Moses Ogembo, to another facility just before the escape, leaving Jumaisi behind. The authorities must now recapture him and the other 12 Eritrean nationals.
The news has sparked outrage among the public. As a result, many Kenyans expressed disbelief and frustration on social media, while also questioning the police force’s competence.
Some citizens called for immediate reforms to prevent such incidents in the future.
Security experts pointed to systemic issues within the police force. George Musamali, a security analyst, stated that guards’ negligence often causes escapes, especially when dealing with high-profile suspects. He emphasized that allowing such individuals to move without handcuffs is a serious oversight.
Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli and other senior officers, including Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin, visited Gigiri Police Station.
They inspected the cell and met with the officers on duty during the escape.
The police have marked the station as a crime scene and are investigating the circumstances surrounding the escape.
Authorities have launched a manhunt to recapture the escapees. The public must report any sightings. The police aim to restore public confidence in their ability to manage inmates and ensure community safety.