A chilling wave of violent crime has left several families mourning in parts of western Kenya, with police launching investigations into multiple deaths under suspicious circumstances.
In Ikobe village, Nyamira County, the body of 29-year-old Peter Onganga was discovered dumped in a local stream. Onganga had been missing since July 28, and his family had been searching for him. His body, retrieved on Thursday, bore visible injuries with blood oozing from his eyes and mouth, suggesting he had been murdered before being dumped in the water. Authorities believe the murder took place elsewhere and the body was moved to the stream to conceal the crime. The motive remains unclear, and an autopsy is scheduled to aid ongoing investigations.
In a separate incident in Manywanda, Kisumu County, another body was found floating in River Awach. The deceased, identified as 23-year-old Brian Mwangala, was a herdsman employed in a nearby homestead. Missing since July 29, Mwangala’s body had multiple bruises and a swollen head, with blood seeping from his nose, ears, and mouth — signs of a brutal killing. The body was recovered and moved to a mortuary, with detectives pursuing leads to uncover those behind the suspected murder.
In Migori County, authorities are also probing the death of a 19-year-old inmate, Brighton Otieno, who died in hospital after reportedly falling ill. Otieno had been serving a ten-year sentence for burglary and theft. Police and prison officials have launched investigations to confirm the cause of death and rule out foul play. His next of kin have been informed, and plans are underway for burial.
Meanwhile, in Borabu, Nyamira County, a 44-year-old man is fighting for his life after he was attacked by suspected bandits. The victim raised an alarm when a group of rustlers targeted his compound in Ensabakwa, Esise area, attempting to steal livestock. In the confrontation, one of the assailants shot him in the chest with an arrow. He was rushed to hospital in critical condition. The attackers fled the scene, and police are continuing their manhunt.
Residents in affected areas have raised concerns over increasing insecurity, including a resurgence in cattle rustling. Many are now calling on authorities to take swift and decisive action to curb the growing crime wave.
