Two people have died and two others are in police custody following a violent incident in Lailuba Village in Tigania East Constituency, where a man was allegedly hacked to death by his brothers-in-law before an angry mob retaliated, killing one of the suspects.
The tragic events unfolded in Meru County, leaving residents in shock and prompting calls from authorities for calm and respect for the rule of law.
Man Attacked While Helping Sick Mother-in-Law
According to local residents, the deceased had visited the home of his ailing mother-in-law to persuade her to seek medical treatment.
Witnesses say the man was allegedly attacked by two brothers and their sister, who are relatives of the sick woman.
Neighbours reported that the trio assaulted the man, fatally injuring him during the confrontation.
The motive for the attack remains unclear, and police have launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Mob Justice Claims One Suspect
News of the killing quickly spread through the village, triggering anger among residents.
An enraged mob reportedly descended on one of the suspects, beating him severely in an act of mob justice.
Residents also set two houses on fire where the remaining suspects were believed to be hiding.
Security officers later arrived at the scene and managed to rescue the two suspects from the crowd. However, the suspect who had been beaten by the mob died while being rushed to hospital.
Local Administration Condemns Violence
Confirming the incident, John Mamira described the situation as deeply tragic.
He noted that the deceased had visited the home only to assist his sick mother-in-law.
Speaking in Kiswahili, Mamira urged residents not to take the law into their own hands.
“Kuna huzuni nyingi sana hapa mahali maafa ilitokea, na ningetaka kuwaomba wananchi, ata kama umekasirika namna gani, tafadhali tusichukulie sheria mikononi ili aliyekukosea achukuliwe hatua,” he said.
The chief added that the deceased had come with good intentions.
“Marehemu alikuwa amekuja kusaidia mama yake, shemeji… kwa hivyo amekufia kwa uzuri wake na si ati alikuwa na uhasama.”
Previous Efforts to Help the Sick Woman
The administrator revealed that he had visited the family the previous week to encourage the sick woman to continue taking medication after she had been discharged from hospital.
Residents also described the family involved in the incident as reclusive, saying they rarely participated in community activities.
One neighbour said the siblings had lived together at their mother’s homestead for decades and had minimal interaction with other villagers.
Police Investigation Underway
The bodies of the two deceased individuals have been moved to Miathene Level 4 Hospital mortuary.
Meanwhile, two suspects — a brother and sister — are being held at Muthaara Police Station as police continue with investigations into the incident.
Authorities have urged residents to remain calm and allow law enforcement agencies to handle the matter through the legal process.
