Police are investigating an incident where a family lost seven cows and nine sheep following a suspected arson incident at Murumba village in Gem, Siaya County, on Sunday night.

According to residents, arsonists allegedly set the family’s cattle pen ablaze, burning the livestock beyond recognition.

Speaking to Citizen Digital, the home caretaker said that neighbors woke him up at around 4 a.m. and told the cattle pen was up in flames when he rushed there.

 When he returned, he found it already engulfed in the fierce fire with all the animals inside.

The caretaker tried to put out the fire in vain with the help of locals, but he only saved one sheep.

The family suspects that one of their neighbors, who has had problems with the caretaker, caused the fire.

They now want the neighbor investigated.

Confirming the incident, the area Assistant Chief Millicent Otieno said that investigations have already been launched.

She warned that the suspects shall be brought to book and directed the family to bury the remains of the animals.