The Westgate Mall Attack Hero Confirmed Dead At Kiambu Hospital
Former Mlolongo OCS Stephen Lelei was pronounced dead on Saturday evening, June 15, while receiving treatment at Kiambu Hospital.
His family confirmed his death to the press but did not reveal the cause of death. Lelei is recognized as one of the heroes who rescued victims during the Westgate Mall attack in 2013.
Friends and family mourned the former police officer, as did leaders such as former Nairobi Governor Mike Mbuvi Sonko, who sent his condolences to the family.
“Rest in Peace Westgate attack hero cop Stephen Lelei,” Sonko stated.
RIP. Westgate attack hero cop Stephen Lelei. pic.twitter.com/nKFwvVicjh
— Mike Sonko (@MikeSonko) June 15, 2024
Notably, Lelei was among the officers recognized by former President Uhuru Kenyatta for their heroic actions during the 2013 terror attack.
Lelei was one of the first teams to arrive at the scene when the terrorists attacked.
The officer, also known as Ocampo, was shot in the leg during the attack while waiting for another response team.
Uhuru presented Lelei with the Silver Star medal after the gunmen were neutralised and the other hostages were rescued. He also received numerous promotions for his bravery and leadership.
Kenya lost over 60 people who were present at the shopping mall during the incident. The attack also destroyed the popular mall.
Aside from his heroic actions, Lelei was named as one of the accused officers in the murder of lawyer Willie Kimani in 2015.
He was, however, released after three other officers were convicted and sentenced.
In 2022, Lelei was also charged with murder in a separate case. The Director of Public Prosecutions approved his murder charges.
Lelei’s death comes as Kenya mourns the deaths of Reggae MC Njambi Koikai and her father Daniel Koikai, comedian Fred Omondi, and Principal Magistrate Monica Kivuti over the last week.
The Westgate Mall Attack Hero Confirmed Dead At Kiambu Hospital
