Residents of Matioli area in Malava Constituency are in shock after a tragic incident in which a one-month-old baby was allegedly killed during a traditional ceremony. The suspect, identified as the child’s uncle, is currently in police custody as investigations continue.
According to reports from the area, the infant had been brought by his mother from Nairobi to participate in a customary shaving ceremony — a traditional Luhya rite of passage. The ceremony, which is usually a celebratory and significant cultural event, instead ended in tragedy.
Local authorities confirmed that the suspect, a 39-year-old man, received the baby and his family at his home. During the visit, the infant was reportedly killed under circumstances that remain unclear. Residents expressed shock at the horrifying turn of events.
The child’s mother, who had traveled from Nairobi where the father works, had intended to perform the ritual as part of family tradition. The father’s work commitments had kept him away, leaving the mother and child to travel home for the ceremony.
“I received a report from a resident that someone had slaughtered a baby,” a local chief said, describing the community’s distress following the incident. Neighbors expressed deep concern and disbelief over the loss, noting that such an event is extremely rare in the area and has left many families grieving.
Following the incident, the suspect was apprehended and taken to the Kabras Police Post, where authorities launched investigations into the killing. The police are working to establish the motive and the exact circumstances surrounding the child’s death.
The body of the infant was transported to a local mortuary for examination, while authorities continue to appeal to the public for any information that may assist in the ongoing investigations. Community leaders have also called for heightened awareness around traditional practices to ensure that ceremonies intended to celebrate life do not result in tragedy.
This incident has sparked a wider discussion on the safety of traditional rites and the need for closer supervision during ceremonies involving children. The community remains united in mourning while hoping that justice will be served swiftly for the young life lost.
