Police in Kitutu Central, Kisii County, are investigating an incident in which a man suspected of stealing chickens was lynched and burnt to death by an angry mob in Mwobo Village, Bogusero Ward, Kitutu Chache South Constituency.
The incident reportedly occurred after the man was allegedly found in possession of a wheelbarrow loaded with chickens suspected to have been stolen, sparking anger among residents.
According to the initial report, the discovery prompted a group of residents to turn against the man, accusing him of being involved in chicken theft in the area.
The situation reportedly escalated into mob violence, with the residents attacking the suspect before lynching him and setting his body on fire.
The man died at the scene following the attack.
Police in Kitutu Central have since launched investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing, including the events that led to the mob turning against the suspect.
Authorities have condemned the incident, warning members of the public against taking the law into their own hands whenever they apprehend individuals suspected of committing crimes.
Residents have been urged to exercise restraint and report suspected criminal activities to the police instead of subjecting suspects to violence.
Security officials have reiterated that individuals accused of criminal offences must be handed over to law enforcement officers for investigations and subsequent legal action.
Authorities have also warned that mob justice undermines the rule of law and can lead to the loss of innocent lives, particularly where accusations have not been independently established.
Under Kenya’s justice system, every person suspected of committing an offence is entitled to due process and should be presented before a court of law, where evidence can be examined before a determination is made.
The incident in Mwobo Village adds to concerns over mob justice and the growing tendency among some members of the public to punish suspected criminals without allowing law enforcement agencies to handle the cases.
Police are expected to establish the full circumstances of the incident and identify those who participated in the fatal attack.
