Tension gripped Baricho police station in Ndia, Kirinyaga County, after angry mourners staged a dramatic protest by dumping a coffin containing the body of a 28-year-old man suspected to have been murdered.
The deceased, Joseph Nguru Munyaro, a boda boda rider based at Kiaga trading centre in Kirinyaga Central constituency, was reportedly killed and his body dumped in the Kiwe River at Mukithi, located along the border of Ndia and Kirinyaga Central constituencies. His brand-new motorcycle was discovered near the scene, raising further suspicions about the circumstances of his death.
The mourners, who had collected Nguru’s body from Kerugoya mortuary, diverted from the burial route and took the coffin to the Baricho police station in protest. They accused the police of failing to arrest key suspects despite clear leads and public outcry. The agitated crowd blocked the station’s entrance and caused a two-hour standoff, demanding swift action from law enforcement.
“We are tired of police inaction. Our brother was brutally murdered, and nothing is being done. We want justice!” one mourner shouted during the protest.
After airing their grievances to the media, the mourners took matters into their own hands. They marched to the homestead of a man they suspect was involved in the killing and torched his property. Household items were destroyed in the inferno, and in the chaos, mourners reportedly made away with chickens from the compound.
Ndia Sub-County Police Commander Jos Mudavadi confirmed the incident and stated that investigations into Nguru’s death had commenced. He urged residents to come forward and record statements to aid in the probe.
“We have launched thorough investigations and are calling on members of the public with any information to assist by providing statements,” Mudavadi said.
The shocking incident has left the community shaken, with many residents calling for expedited justice and protection from criminal elements that threaten their safety.
As the family prepares for Nguru’s final rites, the community remains on edge, hoping that their protest will compel authorities to act swiftly and decisively.
