A police officer stationed at Kenya’s State House, Nairobi, has tragically died after being struck by an arrow in a shocking breach of security that occurred on the morning of October 13, 2025. The 56-year-old assailant, armed with a bow and multiple arrows, advanced toward officers stationed at Gate D, ignoring repeated warnings to surrender. Constable Ramadhan Mattanka, a veteran officer with the General Service Unit (GSU), was hit in a critical area and later succumbed to his injuries at Kenyatta National Hospital. The attacker was quickly subdued and taken into custody, prompting renewed scrutiny of security protocols at one of the country’s most sensitive government installations.
Security experts have highlighted structural weaknesses exposed by the incident, citing slow response times and reliance on outdated manual systems. Former GSU officer George Musamali emphasized that while the assailant did not carry heavy weaponry, the response should have been faster and more proactive. He warned that Kenya’s current approach, which depends heavily on human surveillance and manual visitor logs, is insufficient to deter unconventional threats such as lone-wolf attacks, drone incursions, or other forms of sabotage. Layered security that integrates technology and human intelligence is essential to prevent incidents before they escalate, Musamali said.
The attack has sparked public debate on the balance between visible security and accountability at State House. Unlike security agencies in other nations that issue detailed post-incident reviews, Kenya’s State House has remained largely silent, only confirming the officer’s death through a National Police Service statement. Analysts argue that transparency and procedural updates following breaches are key to maintaining public confidence while ensuring the protection of high-profile sites. Calls have intensified for investment in modern surveillance tools, including CCTV networks, drones, automated access controls, and predictive intelligence systems.
Looking ahead, security authorities are expected to re-evaluate their protocols and explore technological integration to complement human oversight. Experts recommend continuous patrolling, real-time data monitoring, and rapid-response teams as part of a comprehensive strategy to safeguard critical installations. As Kenya confronts evolving security challenges, the incident underscores the urgent need to modernize protective measures at State House and other sensitive government sites to prevent similar tragedies in the future.