A Kenyan officer was killed in a bow and arrow attack at the gate of the president’s residence

A Kenyan police officer stationed at one of the gates of the president’s official residence in the capital, Nairobi, has died after being hit by an arrow, officials said.

On Monday morning, a 56-year-old man, armed with a bow and arrows, approached officers at the gate of the presidential residence and ordered him to surrender, police said. Instead, he stepped forward and shot PC Ramadhan Matanka in the ribs.

The policeman was immediately taken to the hospital, but he died while receiving treatment, according to a police statement.

The attack raised questions about possible security lapses as the presidential residence is one of the most heavily guarded locations in Kenya.

PC Matanka’s body is now at a morgue and an autopsy will be conducted later.

An investigation is also underway to determine the motive behind the attack.

Local media reported that the dead policeman was among those who were checking vehicles entering the state headquarters.

The alleged attacker, who was said to have disguised himself as a homeless person and carried a bag concealing weapons, was arrested following the assault.

Video footage published by Kenyan television channel NTV later on Monday showed a man handcuffed and with visible injuries. He was in a police car and was reportedly taken to hospital for treatment.

Local media reported that the man was expected to appear in court later on Tuesday.

“The National Police Service condemns this heinous act and commends the officers for their quick response, which prevented further damage,” police spokesman Moshiri Nyaga said.

He sent his condolences to the family of the slain policeman, noting that the officer “paid the greatest price while performing his duty.”