Man’s body found in well in Ndia, Kirinyaga County

Residents of Kiambwe village in Ndia, Kirinyaga County, were left in shock after the body of a worker was retrieved from a 140-foot well.

The deceased, identified as 47-year-old David Ngugi Irungu, was found with leg and head injuries, prompting a murder investigation.

Kirinyaga-West Police Commander Luckyton Jos Mudavadi reported that the victim was reported missing on February 24, 2026, by the homestead owner, Stephen Muriuki, a Nairobi-based businessman.

Authorities believe the murder was committed by a former employee who had been dismissed by Muriuki due to poor performance.

The suspect, reportedly from Karatina, Mathira, Nyeri County, allegedly murdered Irungu after being allowed into the house to spend the night.

Detectives, working diligently since the case was reported, uncovered crucial evidence through CCTV footage installed at the homestead.

Firefighters from the Kirinyaga County Government, led by Peter Muriithi, faced a challenging operation to retrieve the body from the well, which had to be filled with water to facilitate the rescue.

Residents of Kiambwe village, who were barred from accessing the homestead, expressed their concern and curiosity about the incident.

"We want to understand what happened; the owner is our neighbour," said Jane Wangu. Eric Waweru, who knew the victim, expressed shock at the news, saying, "The owner is my friend; I used to fell his trees when he needed help."

The police are actively pursuing the suspect, with Mudavadi assuring the public, "We are on him."