A Kenyan court has approved a 14-day detention for a man accused of fatally stabbing a security officer outside the country’s presidential office on Monday, an incident widely described as a serious breach of national security.
During Tuesday’s court session, the investigating officer requested more time to complete inquiries, revealing that the suspect, who claimed he was “sent by the devil,” will undergo a mental health evaluation.
According to police reports, the man approached the main gate of the State House disguised as a homeless person before attacking the officer with a bow and arrow, striking him in the chest. The guard was rushed to a hospital where he was later pronounced dead. The attacker was apprehended on the spot.
“The National Police Service strongly condemns this brutal act and commends the officers for their quick response, which prevented more casualties,” police spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said in a statement.
Authorities have launched a full investigation to uncover the motive behind the attack. It remains unclear whether the suspect, identified as Kithuka Kimunyi, had any prior connection to the slain officer, Ramadhan Hamisi Matanka.
The assault has raised serious concerns over the security of the presidential palace, one of the most fortified locations in Kenya.“When individuals can freely loiter near such high security facilities like State House, that’s a huge lapse in security. Measures must be reinforced immediately,” said lawyer Ishmael Nyaribo.
Presiding Judge Christine Njagi ordered that Kimunyi be taken for medical attention after he claimed to have fractured his leg during the assault. He appeared in court limping.
President William Ruto was reportedly inside his office when the incident occurred. His residence and workplace are guarded by an elite security unit.
