Siaya Authorities Embarrassed as Six Handcuffed Suspects Escape From Court

A major security breach at the Siaya Law Courts on May 5, 2025, resulted in the escape of six suspects facing robbery with violence charges. 

The escape occurred during what should have been a routine court appearance before Magistrate Jacob Mkala. The suspects were among a group of seven brought to the court for case mentions. Following their appearance, they were held in the court’s basement, awaiting transfer back to the Siaya GK Prison when the incident happened.

The fugitives have been identified as Fredrick Wafula Shikanda, John Ngote Itole, Farid Kimtai, John Okumu (alias Otis), Albert Otieno (alias Oliver), and Kevin Otieno Odhiambo. They reportedly exploited a structural weakness within the court building, slipping through a narrow opening undetected. Court officials, who requested anonymity, indicated that the suspects had requested to use the restroom, a request that was granted under the assumption of strict supervision.

The suspects, escorted individually, discovered a gap in the structure, which they then used to slip away, blending in with court visitors before leaving the premises. The escape was not discovered until a headcount several hours later. This prompted an immediate manhunt across Siaya County. The delay in detecting the breach has fueled criticism of the police force's operational efficiency and accountability.

In the aftermath of the escape, thirteen police officers responsible for guarding the suspects have been arraigned in court. Officers Joan Komen, Hannington Kidadi, Cyril Murombo, Philip, Michael Kipkemei, Collins Kibet, Erastus Makenzi, Samwel Ombesa, John Mulwa, Fanuel Chacha, Wallecks Asugo, Evans Toel, and David Matheka face charges of aiding the escape. They have denied the charges. Prosecutors argue that their negligence or potential complicity warrants their continued detention pending further investigation.

Siaya County Police Commander Serah Koki has assured the public that efforts to recapture the fugitives are ongoing. She has confirmed that an internal investigation is underway to determine the circumstances surrounding the security lapse. This incident highlights ongoing concerns about security protocols within Siaya County's correctional facilities. 

On May 14, 2024, a similar security lapse occurred at Siaya GK Prison, where three inmates escaped from a work detail at a prison farm. While two of the escapees were quickly apprehended, the third, Joseph Otieno Okombo, remains at large.