A suspected member of the outlawed Mungiki sect was killed, and several others fled after a violent confrontation at the South Ngariama ranching scheme in Murinduko ward, Mwea-East.
According to local reports, more than 500 residents mobilized to drive away the suspected gang, setting fire to seven semi-permanent houses in the process.
Community members claim that over 30 individuals linked to the banned sect had been occupying land illegally, allegedly seizing property from rightful owners and planning attacks.
“They attempted to evict a local from his land, but we stood up against them. Despite being armed, we overpowered them, resulting in the death of one suspect, whose body was later set on fire,” said Peter Wanjohi, a resident.
Another community member, Peter Gichira, echoed the sentiments, stating, “We refuse to let them settle here. They have been extorting money and forcefully taking our land. We are putting an end to this.”
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Residents accused a self-proclaimed land surveyor of bringing the group into the area to forge property documents, leading to disputes.
“This individual has been manipulating land records, causing confusion and unrest, but we have decided enough is enough,” said William Muthike.
Authorities from the Mwea-East sub-county, led by Deputy County Commissioner Fred Ayieko, refrained from commenting, stating that investigations are ongoing.
This isn’t the first time the community has taken action against the sect. In 2008, they successfully expelled the group after a reign of terror in the region.
Police later transported the deceased’s body to the mortuary, while locals remained firm in their stance, vowing to prevent the return of the outlawed group.
