A man is being held at Shianda Police Station in Kakamega County on suspicion of killing his 41-year-old brother in a dispute over land. The incident, which took place in Isongo village, has left the community divided over the circumstances of the altercation and the nature of the suspect’s actions.
Mumias East Police Commander Dorris Chemoss confirmed that the deceased, William Anjisu Waswa, had been in an ongoing dispute with his brother, Charles Waswa, over family land. Reports indicate that William, armed with a machete, confronted Charles in what appeared to be an attempt to attack him. However, Charles managed to overpower William, prompting the latter to call for help, which attracted the attention of neighbors who intervened.
Tragically, the altercation resulted in William’s death, leading to Charles’s arrest. The incident has sparked controversy, with some family members and neighbors coming to the defense of the accused. According to them, William had a history of violence and was a nuisance to the community. Some relatives have claimed that he previously attacked his own son, further exacerbating his reputation for aggressive behavior.
Given these claims, the family is calling on the authorities to release Charles, asserting that his actions were in self-defense rather than a premeditated act of violence. They argue that William’s behavior had been a longstanding issue and that Charles should not be held accountable for defending himself against a perceived threat.
Meanwhile, the police have urged families to seek peaceful means of resolving disputes rather than resorting to violence. Land conflicts remain a significant source of tension in many communities across Kenya, often leading to tragic outcomes when not handled appropriately. Authorities continue to investigate the incident to determine the full details and ensure that justice is served.
The case underscores the need for alternative dispute resolution mechanisms in land-related conflicts, as well as the importance of community engagement in fostering peace and stability. Residents have been urged to report disputes early to prevent such violent confrontations in the future.
