A 27-year-old man, John Muchiri Muthoni, was found dead along the roadside in the Milimani Kawaida area of Banana, Kiambaa, Kiambu County, after being subjected to mob justice following a theft attempt.
His body was discovered on January 4, 2024, just one day after he was reported missing on January 3, 2024.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed that Muthoni, along with several accomplices, attempted to break into a rental property in the area.
“Witnesses reported hearing them walking on the iron sheet roof and tampering with the Wi-Fi network receiver installed there,” the police report stated.
Upon realizing the intrusion, residents of the property raised the alarm, causing the suspects to flee in different directions.
However, Muthoni was caught by the crowd and was subjected to mob justice about 20 meters from the property.
“Further investigation confirmed that the residents of this property had previously been victims of multiple break-ins and burglaries,” the DCI added.
Initially, the case was categorized as an abduction.
However, following further investigation, the DCI clarified that Muthoni’s death was the result of mob violence linked to the attempted theft.
Muthoni’s body has been taken to the Kihara Level IV Hospital mortuary, where it awaits autopsy.
His girlfriend received a call directing her to the location of his body, raising further concerns about the circumstances surrounding his death.
“We remain committed to conducting thorough and impartial investigations to ensure justice is served,” a DCI spokesperson said.
This incident highlights the growing issue of mob lynching, which has seen a rise in recent months.
Authorities continue to call on the public to report suspected criminals to the police rather than resorting to violence.
“We urge the public to surrender suspects to the authorities for proper processing and prosecution,” officials said, stressing the importance of upholding the rule of law.
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