A suspect has been arrested after allegedly stealing a loaded police firearm from an officer in a dramatic incident at Kitale Police Station.

According to police reports, the incident occurred on Wednesday, May 20, 2026, when a man disguised in a police raincoat and posing as a newly posted officer from Eldoret allegedly gained access to the station and engaged officers on duty.

The suspect is said to have convinced officers to assist him in finding accommodation and later accompanied them to a nearby hotel, where he allegedly deceived one officer into helping carry his belongings before making away with a loaded Steyr rifle and 25 rounds of 9mm ammunition.

The suspect reportedly fled the scene on a motorcycle, prompting a coordinated manhunt by security agencies.

Police say acting on intelligence from members of the public, officers from Sibanga Police Station launched a targeted operation in Sokomoko Village, Sitatunga Location in Trans Nzoia East Sub-county, where they arrested a 22-year-old suspect identified as Brian Kibet.

The stolen firearm was recovered during the arrest, still loaded with 25 rounds of ammunition.

The suspect is in custody pending processing and arraignment, as investigations continue.

Authorities have praised members of the public for providing timely information that led to the recovery of the weapon, terming the incident a strong example of cooperation between security agencies and citizens in combating crime.