Seven suspects have been arrested for the kidnapping and attempted murder of a 35-year-old man, Juma Swaleh, in the Tradewinds area of Diani. The incident, which took place on July 17, has drawn significant attention due to the involvement of a local political handler and the contentious nature of the land in question.
The Incident
According to police reports, Swaleh was forcibly taken by the suspects, placed in the boot of a car, and driven to the disputed land. Upon arrival, he was left with multiple stab wounds across his body. Police, alerted to the scene, found Swaleh with severe injuries, including cuts on his forehead, face, and nose. He was promptly rushed to Msambweni County Referral Hospital for treatment. Following a swift investigation, law enforcement officials were able to trace and arrest the seven individuals linked to the crime.
Kwale police boss Stephen Ngetich confirmed the arrests, stating that the case of kidnapping and attempted murder is currently pending before the court. “The matter is now under active probe, and we will take more action as more comes out on the motive,” Ngetich said.
Background of the Dispute
The violent incident occurs against the backdrop of a legal battle over the ownership of the land in Diani. The conflict intensified days after Justice Addraya Edda Dena issued orders to halt any interference with the property. The court order, dated July 3, restrains the Kwale County Government and four others, including the governor, from visiting or altering the disputed land.
The land, owned by a foreign investor through Krav Marine Limited, has been the subject of a lawsuit against local authorities and other parties accused of attempting to illegally seize the property. Justice Dena’s orders mandate maintaining the status quo on the properties known as Kwale/Diani Beach Block/1270-1287 and prohibit any sale or disposition of the land until the case is resolved. The matter is scheduled for a hearing on October 22, 2024.
Political and Legal Ramifications
The investor has expressed frustration over the lack of police assistance in protecting the property, despite the court order. The situation escalated when unknown individuals invaded and fenced the property in defiance of the court’s mandate, culminating in the violent attack on Swaleh.
In the midst of these events, Kwale County Governor Fatuma Achani, along with former Tourism and Wildlife Cabinet Secretary Alfred Mutua, visited the disputed land earlier this year. Governor Achani announced plans to develop a tourist market in Diani, stating that the county government and the Ministry of Tourism are in the process of reclaiming land that was allegedly acquired illegally by private developers.
Despite the ongoing court case, Governor Achani asserted that the administration had successfully repossessed two acres of land, sparking further controversy.
Future Developments
As the investigation continues and the court prepares for the October hearing, the legal and political implications of the land dispute remain uncertain. Justice Dena has warned of severe penalties for any parties disobeying court orders, indicating that further legal action may be taken against those who continue to interfere with the property.
The incident has underscored the volatile nature of land disputes in the region, highlighting the need for clear legal resolutions and enforcement of court orders to prevent further violence and ensure justice for all parties involved.
