A tragic wave of violence has rocked parts of western Kenya, with police investigating several deaths reported over the weekend across Kakamega, Siaya, and Tharaka counties.
In a heartbreaking case from Mudowera village in Khwisero, Kakamega County, a nine-year-old boy was found murdered and his body dumped within their home compound. Police say the child had been assaulted by a man well known to the family on Saturday. Preliminary investigations revealed the boy had visible injuries on his back and had been strangled. The suspect has since been arrested and is currently in police custody pending arraignment. The motive behind the killing remains unclear as detectives continue their probe. The body has been moved to a local mortuary for autopsy.
Elsewhere in Siaya County, a Ugandan woman died under mysterious circumstances after complaining of severe stomach pains shortly after supper. She collapsed and died minutes later. Police have collected food samples for toxicological analysis as part of ongoing investigations.
Meanwhile, in Tharaka County, a man identified as Kelvin Karani succumbed to injuries sustained in an assault by a known individual. The attack occurred on July 13, and Karani died six days later while receiving treatment in hospital. Police have launched a manhunt for the suspect, who remains at large.
In Sulwe village, Siaya County, another incident of mob justice turned fatal after 45-year-old Hilary Odhiambo was stoned to death on allegations of theft. According to police, a mob dragged him from his house and lynched him in a dramatic turn of events. Officers arrived at the scene after he had already died. Authorities have condemned the killing and vowed to pursue those responsible.
The rise in cases of mob lynching is causing growing concern among law enforcement. Police report at least three such incidents occur daily and are urging the public to refrain from taking the law into their own hands. They emphasize the importance of handing over suspects to authorities for due legal process.
As investigations into these incidents continue, the spotlight remains on the need for stronger community policing and public education to combat rising crime and mob justice.
