Police have launched investigations into the gruesome killing of a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer who was attacked by unknown assailants in the Seme area of Kisumu County.

According to local authorities, the officer was attacked early Saturday morning while heading home from Asat Beach in the company of another man. The two were ambushed by the assailants, who struck them with sharp objects, inflicting deep cuts to their heads and limbs.

The 46-year-old KDF officer, who was attached to Embakasi Barracks, was rushed to the Jaramogi Oginga Odinga Referral Hospital (JOORH) but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival at around 4 a.m.

The second victim survived the attack and is currently receiving treatment at the same hospital with serious injuries.

Following the death, the officer’s body was transferred from JOORH to Kwea Funeral Home, where it is being preserved pending a post-mortem examination.

Speaking to the press hours after the incident, West Othany Assistant Chief Richard Jaoko confirmed that security agencies had commenced investigations into the attack. Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), working alongside officers from Kombewa Police Station, visited the scene as part of the probe.

Authorities have appealed to members of the public who may have information related to the incident to come forward and assist investigators.

The killing comes amid a surge in insecurity in various parts of the country, with cases of muggings, robbery with violence and murder reported to have increased, particularly during the festive season.

In response, the Ministry of Interior announced enhanced security measures on December 17 aimed at safeguarding lives and property across the country. Authorities have activated a coordinated, multi-agency security plan to bolster public safety throughout the holiday period.

The strategy includes the activation of the National Multi-Agency Command Centre (NMACC), which will oversee surveillance, intelligence sharing and rapid response operations before, during and after the festive season.