A Kenyan court has granted police a 14-day detention period to hold a man accused of fatally stabbing a security guard outside the country’s presidential office. The incident, which occurred on Monday, has raised concerns about security lapses at the highly guarded State House.

According to investigators, the suspect, Kithuka Kimunyi, disguised himself as a homeless person and approached the main gate of the presidential office. He then stabbed a security officer, Ramadhan Hamisi Matanka, in the chest using a bow and arrow. The officer was pronounced dead at a hospital, while Kimunyi was arrested at the scene.

Kimunyi claimed to have been sent by the devil, prompting the investigating officer to request a mental health assessment. The court has ordered Kimunyi to undergo treatment at a hospital after he alleged to have sustained a leg fracture during the attack. He appeared in court limping on Tuesday.

President William Ruto was present in his office at the time of the attack, which has been deemed a major security breach. The presidential office and residences are guarded by an elite police squad, making the incident even more alarming. The fact that Kimunyi was able to bypass security measures and carry out the attack has raised questions about the effectiveness of the current security protocols.

The investigation is ongoing, with police seeking to determine the motive behind the attack and whether Kimunyi had any prior connection to the victim. Judge Christine Njagi has ordered Kimunyi to be held in custody for 14 days to allow for further investigation and mental health evaluation.

The incident has highlighted the need for enhanced security measures at sensitive locations, including the presidential office. As the investigation unfolds, authorities will be looking to reassure the public about the safety and security of government facilities. The incident serves as a reminder of the importance of vigilant security protocols to prevent such incidents in the future.