Residents of Mwea-East Sub-County in Kirinyaga took to the streets in a dramatic protest over the murder of 16-year-old Purity Makena. The angered villagers from Mahigaini and Ngucue paraded Makena's body through the community before leaving it outside the home of a suspected killer.
Makena’s body was discovered on Christmas Eve in a coffee farm near her home, bearing signs of assault, including blood from her ears and evidence of sexual violence. Her death has sparked outrage and calls for justice.
Accusations were leveled against two local men, one of whom was rumored to be in a secret relationship with Makena. Villagers also blamed the suspect for other unexplained deaths in the area, alleging that his sexual orientation played a role in the community’s troubles.
"We want them out of this village," declared Paul Migwi, a resident, while others destroyed the suspects’ property. The suspects’ families fled the area, relocating to Rogoi village, but faced attacks along the way.
Police efforts to calm the situation, including the use of tear gas, were met with resistance. Despite the unrest, Makena was laid to rest in Ngucue village the same afternoon.
Authorities have arrested the two suspects as investigations continue, with Mwea-West Sub-County Police Commander Rashid Ali confirming that the suspects had dumped the body in another jurisdiction.