Police Constable Dennis Kibet Cheruiyot, aged 30 and attached to the Presidential Escort Unit (PEU), was discovered dead in his residence within the PEU quarters in Juja Sub-County, Kiambu County. Authorities are investigating the death as a suspected suicide.
The body was found on Wednesday morning with a gunshot wound to the chin, which preliminary investigations suggest was self-inflicted. Senior police officials and forensic teams processed the scene, recovering Cheruiyot's service Jericho pistol loaded with 14 rounds.
Investigators also retrieved a three-page handwritten note from a table inside the home. The note reportedly detailed the officer's personal struggles and appeared to include his final wishes. The contents remain confidential as investigations continue.
Following the scene examination, the body was taken to Kenyatta University Teaching, Referral and Research Hospital (KUTRRH) mortuary for a post-mortem examination.
Context of Rising Police Suicides
This incident follows a similar case involving Corporal Marjorie Bosibori, a 42-year-old police signaller found dead in Kisii County under circumstances also treated as suspected suicide. Police have noted an increase in such cases amid concerns over mental health challenges faced by officers.
Police officers often encounter traumatic situations, contributing to psychological distress. In response, the National Police Service Commission has introduced counselling services and a specialized unit dedicated to mental health support, intervention programs, and outreach aimed at preventing mental health issues and substance abuse among officers.
