What Exactly Is A Flash Bang Grenade And How Does It Work?

In a perplexing turn of events, the Chief of Staff at Standard Group, Laban Cliff Onserio, has been apprehended by detectives from the Anti-terror police unit. Reports suggest that Mr. Onserio was taken into custody after he was discovered in possession of a flash bang training unit model 7290T, more commonly known as a stun grenade.

The circumstances leading up to his arrest are equally bewildering. Apparently, an altercation had taken place at Nairobi's Holy Family Basilica basement, prompting church guards to summon the police over a supposed terrorist threat. During the commotion, officers searched Mr. Onserio's car and found the stun grenade as well as a pocket phone with the model number GA-25.


Now, you may be wondering what exactly is a stun grenade and how does it work? Well, a stun grenade, also known as a flash bang grenade, is an explosive device that is designed to cause disorientation in its target. Upon detonation, it produces an ear-splitting bang and a blinding flash of light.

Similar to a conventional grenade, a stun grenade contains explosive powder inside, but instead of a fuse, it is activated by pyrotechnic chemicals that explode after a delay of about 1.5 seconds. The resulting noise can reach decibels as high as 160-180, which can temporarily impair hearing and vision for a few seconds. As a result, stun grenades are often employed by law enforcement agencies to manage crowds or execute search warrants.

It is worth noting that there have been no reported instances of stun grenade usage in Kenya. However, the flash bang training unit model 7290T found in Mr. Onserio's possession, which is manufactured by Combined Tactical Systems, has been linked to fatal and serious injuries. This has ignited a contentious debate on the proper use of these devices.

Some experts contend that stun grenades can cause severe harm, especially when deployed outdoors. They have been known to hurl gravel like shrapnel, which can cause severe injuries.

Originally created by the British Special Air Service in the 1960s as training weapons, stun grenades have been utilized as military weapons for decades. Now, Mr. Onserio finds himself in custody, facing several charges, including possession of explosives that contravene Section 6(1) and Section 29 of the Explosive Act, Cap. 115 of the Laws of Kenya.