Residents of Nyeri County were left shocked on Friday evening after an incident that reportedly ended in tragedy. The event attracted the attention of many people in the area and has raised concerns about rising cases of livestock theft and mob justice.
According to reports from the area, a man identified as Paul Murothe Kanito was allegedly caught by residents while in possession of a cow that was suspected to have been stolen.
The man was said to have previously worked as an Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at a local police station before reportedly leaving the service.
Eyewitnesses claimed that cases of cattle theft had recently increased in the area, making residents more alert and cautious.
On the day of the incident, the man was allegedly intercepted by locals while heading toward a nearby market where he was suspected to be planning to sell the cow.
Witnesses further stated that a group of residents gathered at the scene and confronted the suspect. During the confrontation, the situation reportedly became tense as more people arrived.
Reports indicate that the man was later beaten by the crowd and unfortunately died from the injuries.
It was also reported that the body was later set on fire, an action that shocked many residents who gathered at the scene.
Authorities have since warned members of the public against taking the law into their own hands.
Police officers have urged residents to always report suspects to the nearest police station instead of attacking them.
According to authorities, suspects should be allowed to face the law through proper investigations and court processes.
Police are expected to investigate the incident further as they work to establish the full circumstances surrounding what happened.
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