Meru County has been rocked by two tragic murders in the Imenti South sub-county, with two men losing their lives in separate incidents over the course of two days. The shocking events, which occurred on September 15 and 16, have left the community in mourning and the local authorities in pursuit of justice for the victims.
First Incident: Assault in Kaguru
The first fatal incident took place on September 15, 2024, at around 10 a.m. in Kaguru, Imenti South. The victim, identified as 48-year-old John Mwiti, was reportedly assaulted at his home by individuals known to him. According to the police, Mwiti sustained serious injuries during the assault and was quickly rushed to Jumupamozzi Medical Center in Kaguru for emergency treatment.
Despite the efforts of medical personnel, Mwiti succumbed to his injuries while undergoing treatment, leaving his family and community devastated by his sudden death. Police swiftly responded to the situation, visiting the crime scene and gathering evidence. Mwiti’s body was later taken to Consolata Hospital mortuary, where it is awaiting a post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause of death.
While investigations are ongoing, the circumstances surrounding the assault remain unclear. Police are reportedly following leads and have already begun questioning individuals in connection to the incident. This tragic death has raised concerns about the safety of residents in the area, with locals calling for swift action to apprehend those responsible.
Second Incident: Body Discovered in Kithare Village
A second grisly discovery was made the following day on September 16, further shocking the residents of Imenti South. At around 4 p.m., police received a report from the assistant chief of Mitunguu, Imenti South, about a male body found lying by the roadside in Kithare village. The authorities immediately dispatched officers to the scene to assess the situation.
Upon arrival, officers discovered the lifeless body of a man identified as Julius Gituma, aged 38 years. Gituma’s body was found lying on his back with visible injuries, a clear indication that he had met a violent death. The scene was promptly processed by the police to gather forensic evidence, and Gituma’s body was transported to the Kanyakine Sub-County Hospital mortuary, where an autopsy will be conducted.
At the time of the report, the police had not yet determined the cause or motive behind Gituma’s murder, and investigations are currently underway. Authorities have called upon anyone with information regarding the incident to come forward and assist with the investigations.
Community Shock and Rising Concerns
The two murders in such a short span of time have left the residents of Imenti South deeply unsettled. Both incidents, involving individuals who were well-known in their respective communities, have sparked calls for improved security measures in the area. Community leaders have voiced concerns about the safety of residents and have urged the police to expedite their investigations to bring the perpetrators to justice.
The murders also highlight broader security challenges in Meru County, where incidents of violence, especially in rural areas, have been reported periodically. The local administration has pledged to increase patrols and work closely with community members to ensure safety and address any rising insecurity concerns.
As investigations into the deaths of John Mwiti and Julius Gituma continue, their families are left grieving and waiting for answers. In a statement, police assured the public that they are working diligently to solve both cases and ensure that those responsible for these heinous acts face the full force of the law.
Conclusion
The tragic deaths of Mwiti and Gituma have sent shockwaves through Meru County, with residents calling for swift justice and improved security. The police are urging anyone with information to assist in the ongoing investigations. Meanwhile, the families of the victims await answers and closure as authorities work to bring justice to the two men whose lives were cut short.
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