Inspector General Japhet Koome has reassured judiciary staff of their safety and security following the tragic shooting and death of Makadara Principal Magistrate Monicah Kivuti.
In a statement released on Monday, Koome emphasized that ensuring the security of judiciary personnel remains a top priority for the National Police Service.
He expressed his condolences and assured that the police are committed to providing a secure environment for all members of the judiciary to perform their duties without fear.
“Following the tragic loss of the Makadara Law Courts’ Principal Magistrate, Hon. Monica Kivuti who succumbed to gunshot wounds inflicted by a police officer on June 13, 2024 at the Makadara Law Courts, the National Police Service would like to re-assure the Hon. Chief Justice and President of the Supreme Court of Kenya, of the safety and security of judicial staff while discharging their official mandate.
“This remains a matter of priority to the Service,” he said.
Inspector General Japhet Koome has emphasized the longstanding commitment of the National Police Service (NPS) to providing security for Judiciary officers and court premises across the country.
He assured that this commitment will continue unwaveringly. Koome extended his condolences to the family of the late Principal Magistrate Monicah Kivuti and the Judiciary, while also wishing a speedy recovery to the two National Police Service officers injured during the incident.
In his statement, Koome acknowledged the complexity and evolving nature of crime, highlighting the NPS’s dedication to collaborating with the Judiciary and the National Council on Administration of Justice to enhance the security of Judicial staff and court users.
He reiterated the NPS’s resolve to adapt to emerging crimes and ensure the safety of all involved.
The tragic incident that claimed Magistrate Kivuti’s life occurred when a senior police officer opened fire in an open court in Makadara, resulting in her death and injuring three other officers.
The Officer Commanding Police Station in Kisumu County was shot dead on the spot by fellow officers during the incident.
“I wish to confirm to the Nation that Hon. Monica Kivuti, Principal Magistrate, Makadara Law Courts has lost the fight against the extensive injuries sustained during an open gun attack in Court,” CJ Koome said.
Kivuti died at the Nairobi Hospital where she was transferred for specialised care after the shooting incident.
Magistrate Kivuti had been shot and injured in the leg and chest.
