A wave of tragic deaths has rocked parts of Kenya, with four separate incidents reported across Bungoma, Machakos, Kwale, and Vihiga counties. Police are now pursuing investigations into the causes and circumstances surrounding these deaths, some of which point to violent crime and others to dangerous labor practices.
In Bungoma South, a man was lynched by a mob in Khalaba village in a suspected case of mistaken identity. The victim, a casual laborer, had visited the homestead of his former mother-in-law in an attempt to reconcile with his ex-wife. However, locals raised an alarm upon noticing him in the compound, and a violent mob descended on him, pelting him with stones and inflicting fatal injuries. He later succumbed to his wounds. Police have condemned the act and are hunting down those responsible, urging the public to refrain from mob justice, which often targets innocent individuals.
In Machakos County, a sand harvester lost his life after a heap of sand collapsed on him in Ivumbuni village. The deceased, 33-year-old Stephen Kyengo, had been excavating sand on his family’s ancestral land when the ground caved in. Though locals tried to rescue him and rushed him to the hospital, he was declared dead on arrival. Authorities noted that such incidents are alarmingly common and have reiterated calls for safer sand harvesting practices to prevent further tragedies.
Meanwhile, in Lungalunga, Kwale County, the body of 60-year-old Patrick Lumumba was discovered by the roadside in Kisasi village. The deceased had visible injuries on his body and blood was seen oozing from his ears and eyes, indicating possible foul play. Police have launched an investigation and moved the body to the mortuary for a postmortem examination.
In another shocking incident in Vihiga County, the body of 41-year-old Jones Kivasa was found dumped in River Jebrok, Hamisi. Police believe he had been murdered and left in the river, with investigations currently underway to uncover those responsible.
Authorities continue to appeal for public cooperation in bringing perpetrators to justice and preventing further loss of life.
