The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed an incident involving the accidental discharge of a firearm at the Bungoma Law Court earlier today, which left a prison officer, three civilians, and a police constable with minor injuries. The incident, which occurred at approximately 10:50 am, has sparked concern over firearm handling within security agencies and raised questions about courtroom safety protocols.
According to a statement issued by the DCI, the incident took place during court proceedings when Police Constable Cornellious Murey, attached to the Directorate, accidentally discharged a round from his Ceska pistol. The bullet ricocheted within the premises, causing injuries to individuals who were in the vicinity.
The victims include a prison officer who sustained a chin injury, three civilians who were near the courtroom corridors, and the officer himself. All of them were rushed to a nearby medical facility where they received treatment and were later reported to be in stable condition.
Eyewitnesses at the scene described the moment as tense and chaotic. Court users and staff were momentarily thrown into panic as the sound of gunfire rang through the compound. Security officers on duty quickly restored order as medical help was mobilized.
The DCI expressed relief that the injuries were not life-threatening and reassured the public that the situation was under control. “We are relieved to report that all victims were promptly taken to a medical facility and are in fair condition,” the statement read. The Directorate further indicated that it was working closely with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and the Judiciary to establish the circumstances leading to the firearm’s discharge. “The DCI is collaborating with IPOA and the Judiciary in the investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding the discharge of the firearm. Further, appropriate measures will be taken in accordance with the Service Standing Orders to ensure accountability and address any potential lapses,” the agency added.
Incidents involving accidental firearm discharges are rare but not unprecedented in Kenya. This case has renewed public debate on firearm safety, particularly within sensitive environments such as courtrooms, which regularly host high-profile cases and often attract large crowds. Legal experts and civil society groups have previously called for stricter firearm handling protocols in public spaces to minimize risks to innocent bystanders. A courtroom, they argue, is a space that demands heightened vigilance given the volatile nature of cases being heard and the emotions they can stir.
Some court users who were present during the incident said the discharge caused confusion as many initially thought it was a deliberate act. “I heard a loud bang and immediately thought there was a security threat. People ducked for cover while others rushed out of the corridors,” said a civilian who requested anonymity. A lawyer who was present in the courtroom at the time described the officer’s reaction as “shocked and remorseful.” “He looked completely shaken, which to me indicated that it was not intentional. However, it was a stark reminder of how dangerous firearms can be if not handled with utmost care,” the lawyer observed.
IPOA has already launched an inquiry into the matter, while the Judiciary has pledged its full cooperation. Preliminary findings are expected to determine whether the incident was due to negligence, a technical malfunction of the weapon, or a breach of safety procedures. Security analysts suggest that such investigations are critical not just for establishing culpability but also for informing future training and preventive measures. “The public deserves assurance that firearm incidents of this nature will not recur. Beyond disciplinary action, this should be treated as an opportunity to reinforce proper firearm safety training and review courtroom security policies,” said security consultant James Mwangi.
Kenya’s police Service Standing Orders (SSOs) provide strict guidelines on firearm use, including when and how officers may discharge their weapons. The rules also emphasize safe storage, routine maintenance, and strict accountability for each firearm issued. If the investigation finds that PC Murey violated these guidelines, he could face disciplinary measures ranging from suspension to dismissal, depending on the degree of negligence established. However, if the discharge is determined to have been purely accidental with no negligence, the focus will likely shift toward improving training and procedural safeguards.
This incident comes at a time when Kenya’s law enforcement agencies are under increasing scrutiny for firearm-related incidents. In recent years, there have been cases where mishandling of weapons by officers has led to unintended injuries or fatalities. Civil society organizations have consistently urged the National Police Service to strengthen training programs on responsible firearm use. IPOA’s role has also been pivotal in ensuring independent oversight, helping to balance the need for security with the protection of public rights and safety.
Courtrooms, in particular, present unique challenges. Officers are often tasked with escorting suspects, maintaining order during proceedings, and protecting judicial staff. The presence of firearms in such spaces is necessary but must be balanced with strict adherence to safety protocols. Judicial officials at the Bungoma Law Court acknowledged the incident but assured the public that proceedings would continue without disruption. Court administrators stressed that safety remains a top priority and pledged to work closely with investigative authorities. “While this was an unfortunate and regrettable incident, we want to reassure the public that the judiciary remains committed to providing a safe environment for all court users,” a court official said.
The Bungoma incident will likely reignite conversations on firearm safety across the country. It underscores the importance of ongoing training, equipment checks, and the need for strict adherence to rules of engagement in public spaces. For the victims, the priority remains full recovery. For the institutions involved, it is about ensuring accountability while preventing future occurrences. And for the public, it is about restoring confidence that law enforcement officers entrusted with firearms will exercise the highest standards of professionalism.
The accidental firearm discharge at the Bungoma Law Court serves as a sobering reminder of the risks associated with firearms in public spaces. While the injuries sustained were minor and all victims are recovering well, the event highlights the urgent need for vigilance, training, and accountability within security agencies. As the DCI, IPOA, and Judiciary work together to establish the facts, Kenyans will be watching closely for the outcome. The lessons learned from this incident could shape future firearm safety policies, not only in courtrooms but across all public spaces where security officers operate.
