A 21-year-old man was killed by an enraged member of the public at the South Ngariama Ranching Scheme in Murinduko Ward, Mwea-East Sub-County, Kirinyaga County, after allegedly attempting to steal miraa, also known as muguka.
The deceased, identified as Dennis Muriuki, was reportedly known in the area for stealing the local cash crop, prompting frustration among farmers.
Residents expressed disbelief over the brutal killing of Muriuki, whose father is a shoemaker at Ikulungu Shopping Centre. Joseph Murimi, a local resident, highlighted the tragedy of the situation, stating,
“He was killed after being caught with only 200 grams of miraa twigs worth less than Ksh 200.” This incident has ignited discussions about the consequences of mob justice in the community.
Mwea-East Sub-County Police Commander Mohammed Jarso confirmed that Muriuki was a known criminal, having been arrested multiple times for theft-related offenses in the area.
“Police have taken the body to the mortuary. However, we urge residents to report such cases to the authorities instead of resorting to mob justice,” Jarso emphasized.
Authorities continue to caution the public against vigilantism, urging the need to follow legal procedures in dealing with crime.
