Fake cop arrested after stealing loaded rifle from Kitale Police Station

A 22-year-old man is in police custody after allegedly masquerading as a police officer and pulling off a daring firearm theft at Kitale Police Station before detectives tracked him down and recovered the stolen weapon.

According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the suspect identified as Brian Kibet allegedly posed as a newly posted officer from Eldoret and walked into the station on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, dressed in a police raincoat.

Police said the suspect confidently interacted with officers manning the station gate, claiming he had just been transferred and was looking for accommodation within the police lines.

“In an elaborate deception, the suspect managed to gain the trust of the officers by engaging them in casual conversation and requesting assistance,” the DCI said in a statement.

The suspect then allegedly convinced the officers to accompany him to a nearby hotel for a meal, before executing what investigators described as a calculated theft.

As they walked, the suspect reportedly tricked one of the officers into helping him carry his luggage, before stealthily making away with the officer’s loaded Steyr rifle containing 25 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

“With lightning speed, the suspect then hopped onto a waiting motorcycle and sped off into the night, leaving confusion and disbelief in his wake,” the statement added.

The incident triggered an immediate security operation and a manhunt involving officers from several units.

The breakthrough came after members of the public shared information with investigators, leading officers from Sibanga Police Station to Sokomoko Village in Sitatunga Location, Trans Nzoia East sub-county.

“Upon conducting a quick search, Kibet was found in possession of the very stolen Steyr rifle, loaded with twenty-five rounds of 9mm ammunition, and ready for action,” the DCI said.

Kibet is currently being processed ahead of his arraignment in court.

The DCI lauded members of the public for volunteering information that aided the recovery of the firearm and the arrest of the suspect.