Tharaka-Nithi Deputy Governor Eliud Mate Muriithi was on Wednesday morning robbed of Sh3.5 million at gunpoint by his bodyguard at his home near Kinoru Estate.
Police say Dr Muriithi had just arrived at his homestead when the Administration Police (AP) bodyguard attacked him and grabbed the bag that contained the cash.
Dr Muriithi attempted to resist but the officer, identified as Constable Josphat Kipyegon, threatened to shoot him, forcing him to flee for his life.
During the commotion, the bodyguard, based at the Marimanti AP camp, left his shoes behind.
The deputy governor told the police that he had sold a piece of land at Kathwana in Tharaka-Nithi.
Eastern Region Police Commander Gideon Amalla said they are pursuing the officer.
“The deputy governor was not with his personal driver. We are investigating the matter,” he said.
North Imenti police boss Sammy Kosgey said the officer went to his house to get another pair of shoes before fleeing.
He said the suspect is armed and dangerous and asked the public to volunteer any information that would lead to his arrest.
“We have set up road blocks on all roads leading to Meru. We have also involved Flying Squad officers in the case,” Mr Kosgey said.
On August 9, police from Marimanti Police Station thwarted a robbery at Dr Muriithi’s other home in Tunyai.
The suspected robbers, armed with pangas, tried to enter the deputy governor’s home but were repulsed by police who had laid an ambush.
