NAIROBI, Kenya- A bouncer was shot dead on Wednesday night in Machakos town after a confrontation with a customer who is a licensed civilian firearm holder, in an incident police believe may be linked to a suspected love triangle.
The bouncer, who had worked at a popular entertainment joint in the town for about 10 years, was shot three times and died on the spot, according to witnesses.
“He was a friendly person and very outgoing. He has stayed in the club for about 10 years,” said a witness familiar with the incident, describing the victim as well known and respected within Machakos’ nightlife scene.
Police sources said the customer, who is licensed to own a firearm, had previously been involved in at least two other scuffles within Machakos.
Investigators are also probing the circumstances under which the suspect’s firearm was handled by police.
Sources indicated that the gun had been confiscated on Tuesday night following an earlier incident but was returned to the licensed holder on Wednesday under unclear circumstances.
The suspect is currently being held in police custody as detectives piece together the sequence of events and establish whether standard operating procedures were followed in releasing the firearm.
Residents and business owners in Machakos have expressed shock over the killing, renewing calls for stricter oversight of licensed civilian firearms, especially in public entertainment spaces.
Police said investigations are ongoing to establish the motive behind the shooting, including the alleged love triangle, before the suspect is arraigned in court.
The body of the bouncer was taken to the mortuary pending a post-mortem examination.
