Siaya police arrest 12 officers after six robbery suspects escape court custody
Nyanza
By
Isaiah Gwengi
| May 06, 2025
Siaya GK Prison gate. [File, Standard]
Police have arrested 12 prison officers after six suspects facing robbery with violence charges escaped from custody at Siaya law courts.
The suspects—Fredrick Wafula Shikanda, John Ngote Itole, Farid Kimtai, John Okumu alias Otis, Albert Otieno alias Oliver and Kevin Otieno Odhiambo—reportedly slipped away moments after appearing in court and were being escorted back to remand.
Siaya County Police Commander Serah Koki confirmed the arrests, saying the officers are being held for questioning over the security lapse.
“We are holding 12 officers as we continue with the investigations. They shall help in unearthing the events that unfolded yesterday when the suspects were brought to court,” said Koki.
READ MORE
Absa backs Eco-Friendly projects with Sh60b funding in 2023
Kenya attains key milestone in sustainable buildings
Why Kenya should adopt statutory adjudication for construction disputes
Cotu made conscious decision to work with the government
Clinker imports dip 93pc as construction sector growth slows
Lack of market data delays State plan to industrialise counties
State vows law review to counter new tech threats
Government bans over 50 harmful pesticide brands
Insurance firms push for higher compensation for policy holders
Koki, who declined to give more details, said police have launched a manhunt for the six escapees.
A court official, who requested anonymity, said the suspects fled just as they were leaving the courtroom.
“It happened within a short period, one time they were in court and the next minute they were nowhere to be seen,” said the officer.
The incident comes one year after a prisoner reportedly escaped from Siaya GK prison.