The tragic death of Senior Magistrate Monica Kivuti has cast a spotlight on Chief Inspector Samson Kipchirchir Kipruto, the former Commander of Londiani Police Station in Kericho County, whose erratic behavior and unchecked health issues culminated in a shocking courtroom shooting.
Kipruto, who had a history of high blood pressure and unpredictable behavior, fatally shot Magistrate Kivuti at the Makadara Law Courts on Wednesday.
The horrific incident unfolded after Magistrate Kivuti had reportedly skipped bail proceedings for her partner, Jennifer Wairimu, accused of fraudulently obtaining Sh2.9 million. Kipruto’s actions led to his immediate death, as other officers in the courtroom returned fire, injuring three of their colleagues in the crossfire.
A Pattern of Erratic Behavior
Over his nearly three-year tenure at Londiani Police Station, Kipruto exhibited a pattern of erratic and aggressive behavior. Colleagues frequently witnessed his emotional outbursts, which included aggressive interrogations and confrontations during security operations.
One junior officer described him to a media station as “a very emotional boss who could very easily attack suspects during interrogations or security operations.”
Kipruto’s health issues were well-known among his peers. He often complained of high blood pressure, which he cited as a reason for his frequent emotional volatility and mishandling of cases. Despite these red flags, no substantial action was taken by his superiors to address his deteriorating mental state or the risks it posed to his colleagues and the public.
A Day Off Turns Deadly
On the day of the incident, Kipruto had taken an unsanctioned day off without notifying his superiors. His absence was unremarkable until he appeared at the Makadara Courts, armed and intent on violence.
The shooting has raised questions about the oversight and accountability mechanisms within the police force, particularly concerning officers with known health issues and behavioral problems.
Kipruto’s erratic actions on that fateful day were not isolated incidents. Reports indicate that he frequently mishandled cases, including allegations of police brutality and administrative delays that left suspects languishing or victims without justice.
Personal Life and Untold Struggles
At 55, Kipruto still had five years left in the police service, but his personal life was as turbulent as his professional one. He had two wives, one of whom is a police officer currently training at the Police Training College in Kiganjo, Nyeri County.
His wife, along with the public, learned about the tragic incident through social media and was shocked to discover her husband’s involvement and the existence of another woman.
Colleagues and community members described Kipruto as a complex individual, plagued by personal demons and health challenges. His aggressive demeanor and erratic behavior painted a picture of a man on the brink, whose struggles went unaddressed by those around him.
The shooting has prompted calls for a comprehensive review of Kipruto’s cases and an audit of the police force’s handling of officers with health and behavioral issues.
ALSO READ;
