Residents of Kangai village in Mwea-west, Kirinyaga County, took matters into their own hands on Sunday morning, turning into an angry mob that set two alleged chicken thieves ablaze.
Damaris Wairimu, a local resident, reported that the duo was part of a trio involved in the theft of chickens and other items.
The incident unfolded after an alarm was sounded around 3 am, prompting an immediate response from the community.
The two suspects were engulfed in flames, while the third managed to evade capture.
The people of Kirinyaga have expressed deep concern about the escalating incidents of livestock theft, particularly chickens.
John Munene, a resident, voiced the community’s anxiety, stating, “We depend on livestock, and we are worried about the increasing theft cases in our region.”
Jane Wawira, the assistant chief of Mathigaini, along with police from the Kangai police post, arrived promptly at the scene.
Wawira cautioned the residents against taking the law into their own hands.
The remains of the two suspects were transported to the Kerugoya hospital mortuary, awaiting identification.
In this unfortunate turn of events, the community’s frustration over rampant theft has manifested in a tragic and brutal response.
The authorities, however, emphasize the importance of letting the legal system take its course rather than resorting to vigilantism.