A disturbing murder-suicide incident has sent shockwaves through Enziu village in Mwingi, Kitui County, where a farmhand is believed to have taken the life of his girlfriend before ending his own. The bodies of the couple were discovered on Tuesday, tragically separated by approximately 200 metres, a grim testament to the violence that unfolded.
Authorities are currently investigating the motive behind this horrific act, with the investigation still in its early stages. It is understood that the man, who had reportedly been working as a farmhand in the area for the past year, is believed to have killed 25-year-old Elizabeth Mutethya before taking his own life a short distance away.
The discovery of the scene was made by local residents who promptly alerted law enforcement. Upon arrival, police found the woman’s body discarded in a bush. The post-mortem examination revealed a brutal attack, with her throat having been slit. Further injuries were noted, including stab wounds to the right side of her head, beneath her right eye, and on the fingers of her left hand.
Following the discovery of the woman’s body, neighbours guided police to another location where the farmhand’s body was found. He had reportedly hanged himself from a tree, with a rope found around his neck. At the site of the suicide, a handbag believed to belong to the deceased woman was recovered. Inside were two mobile phones, both found switched off, and a police abstract form bearing her name.
Investigations have confirmed that the man and Ms. Mutethya were in a romantic relationship and were frequently seen together in the village, according to neighbours’ accounts. Despite an extensive search, the murder weapon has not yet been recovered. Both bodies have been transferred to a local mortuary for preservation and to undergo autopsies.
The incident in Kitui County highlights a broader and deeply concerning trend of suicides in the region. Police have reported an alarming average of up to five suicide cases daily across the country. These tragic events are reportedly on the rise, with investigations often pointing towards complex issues such as love triangles as contributing factors.
Separate Investigation Underway in Garissa County
In a separate incident, authorities in Dagahaley, Garissa County, are investigating the discovery of a decomposed body. The remains were found in a bushy area and have been identified as those of Yunnis Omar Ali, a 38-year-old Somali national and a refugee residing in the area. Mr. Ali was reportedly last seen on March 17. The body has been moved to the mortuary for further examination and procedures.
