A tragic incident unfolded in Embakasi, Nairobi, where Constable Austin Owiti Oyuech Shariff, an Administration Police officer attached to the close protection unit, reportedly shot himself in the head at his residence.
The incident occurred on Thursday morning, and the motive behind the shooting remains unclear as police have launched an investigation into the matter.
Background of the Officer
Shariff, 43, had previously served as a bodyguard for several government officials and was currently assigned to protect Embakasi West Member of Parliament Mark Mwenje.
Despite reports from those close to him indicating he showed no signs of distress, the shocking event has raised concerns about the mental health challenges faced by police officers.
Mwenje acknowledged the incident, stating,
He expressed his condolences and concern for Shariff’s well-being prior to the tragedy.
Circumstances Leading to the Incident
On the day before his death, Shariff spent time with friends in the neighborhood, enjoying drinks before returning home.
He reportedly woke up as usual before taking the drastic step of using his service weapon. Police have since recovered his body and taken it to a mortuary pending an autopsy and other procedures.
Shariff will be laid to rest at his parent’s home in Seme, Kisumu County, on Friday, September 20, according to his Muslim faith.
This incident adds to a troubling trend within the National Police Service, where cases of suicide among officers have been on the rise.
Many attribute these incidents to stress stemming from their demanding roles. Reports indicate that at least three police officers take their own lives each month, raising alarms about mental health issues within the force.
In response to this crisis, police authorities have initiated counseling services aimed at supporting officers facing mental health challenges.
The National Police Service Commission has established a dedicated unit to address these pressing issues.
This unit will evaluate and design outreach programs to prevent mental health problems and substance abuse among officers.