A key suspect in a devastating arson attack that claimed the lives of nine family members in Siaya County has been apprehended in Nairobi. The 56-year-old man was arrested in Kibra while having supper with his children. His capture marks a significant development in the investigation into the tragic incident that occurred in Upanda village, Sigomere, in Ugunja subcounty.
The suspect had reportedly gone into hiding after learning that detectives were on his trail. His presence in Kibra was brought to the attention of the police following a tip-off from concerned locals. He was found in the Kianda area and arrested with the support of local leaders. Authorities indicated that he would be transferred to Siaya for further questioning.
The horrific arson attack occurred on Tuesday and resulted in the deaths of an entire family a father, mother, and their seven children. The victims perished in a house fire that police suspect was deliberately started. Four of the bodies were burnt beyond recognition, while the remaining five were discovered in the charred remains of their home. The youngest victim was a six-month-old baby, and among the dead was also a high school student who was preparing for national exams.
Initial investigations suggest the attack may be connected to a longstanding land dispute involving the family. Police said the head of the household, a 45-year-old man, had been engaged in a property conflict with another family, a case that had been settled in court. However, tensions appear to have lingered, potentially motivating the brutal act.
The suspect’s wife had already been arrested earlier in the week in Sigomere after police discovered a fuel can at the scene of the fire. Authorities believe the container was used to ignite the blaze. The man confirmed to investigators that he was aware of his wife’s arrest and her detention at Ugunja Police Station.
Further investigative steps have included the seizure of the suspect’s mobile phones for forensic analysis, with police aiming to identify any accomplices involved in the attack. According to sources familiar with the investigation, the suspect allegedly hired a group of individuals and traveled with them to Upanda village in the early hours before the crime took place. After the attack, he is believed to have returned quietly to Nairobi.
Adding another layer of complexity to the case, the suspect reportedly hosted a prayer meeting at his Kibra residence on Wednesday evening, inviting church members for a session of worship. This occurred after his house in the village was set ablaze by angry residents in retaliation for the arson attack. Police say this act by the villagers may have been prompted by mounting outrage and grief over the loss of the entire family.
Neighbours in Kibera were suspicious of the man’s movements, especially after he told them he had traveled to his rural home on the night of the incident. These inconsistencies in his story reportedly contributed to the tip-off that led to his arrest.
Authorities are continuing their investigation, with coordination underway between police units in Nairobi and Siaya. Detectives are working to piece together the full circumstances of the tragedy, with a focus on uncovering the truth behind the suspected premeditated attack and bringing all involved to justice.
