Livestock theft fury boils over in Kirinyaga as mob kills suspected thief

The killing, which occurred near Unit 29 rice fields in Mwea East, underscores growing frustration among residents who say theft of livestock has become increasingly frequent and brazen.

According to locals, the suspect was caught attempting to steal a cow from a shed before the owner raised the alarm, drawing the attention of nearby residents. One accomplice reportedly escaped as the crowd descended on the suspect.

Witnesses said the man claimed to be from a neighbouring county before he was killed — a revelation that has heightened suspicions of coordinated theft networks involving both outsiders and local collaborators.

“We are worried. These thefts are happening too often, and we believe some of the stolen livestock ends up in local markets,” said Peter Wainaina, a resident. “How do you explain being sold meat worth twice what you paid for? It raises serious questions.”

The incident comes just days after authorities rescued 25 donkeys in Ndindiruku village, also in Mwea East, in what officials believe was part of an illegal slaughter operation. Two suspects were arrested and the animals taken to Wang’uru Police Station.

Kiarukungu Location Chief Henry Kariuki said the donkeys were moments away from being slaughtered when police intervened.

“The suspects claimed they were working for brokers, but no owner came forward,” Kariuki said, pointing to the likelihood of organised syndicates behind the thefts.

Police have condemned the mob killing and urged residents to remain calm and cooperate with law enforcement agencies.

Mwea East Sub-County Police Commander Stephen Okal called on the public to report suspicious activity rather than take the law into their own hands.

“We understand the frustrations, but mob justice only complicates investigations and denies suspects their right to due process,” he said.

The body of the deceased was moved to Kerugoya County Referral Hospital mortuary, where it awaits identification.

The latest incident highlights the growing security challenge in Mwea East, where residents say livestock theft is no longer an isolated crime but a persistent threat to livelihoods — and one increasingly fuelling dangerous forms of vigilante justice.