Kirinyaga family demands action after kin fatally injured in hippo attack

A post-mortem examination has confirmed that Fredrick Warui, a resident of Kangondo Village in Kirimara Location, died from massive internal bleeding caused by severe chest and abdominal injuries sustained during the attack.

Warui was reportedly attacked by the hippo on the night of May 30, 2026, at around 10 p.m. He was rushed to Kimbimbi Sub-County Hospital before being referred to Kerugoya County Referral Hospital, where he succumbed to his injuries at approximately 2:20 a.m.

The post-mortem was conducted at Kibugi Funeral Home in Kutus and witnessed by family members, including his wife Beatrice Njeri and sister Rose Wangui, as well as detectives from Mwea East Sub-County.

According to the pathologist's report, Warui suffered multiple serious injuries, including deep puncture wounds to the chest and abdomen, cuts beneath the left armpit, bruises on his back and knees, a collapsed lung, torn blood vessels, and extensive internal bleeding.

"The cause of death was massive internal hemorrhage following penetrating chest and abdominal injuries caused by a wild animal attack," the pathologist concluded.

Speaking at Kibugi Funeral Home, Warui's sister, Rose Wangui, accused KWS of failing to take adequate action following the fatal attack.

She said the family has yet to confirm a burial date, citing dissatisfaction with the agency's response.

"KWS officials visited us and promised KSh30,000, but we have not received anything. The animal is still roaming in the area, and no action has been taken. We want justice for our brother and assurance that other residents will be safe," Wangui said.

The incident has renewed concerns over increasing human-wildlife conflict in Mwea.

According to local residents, hippos have attacked at least four people in the area this year. Warui is the only fatality so far, while three other victims from Kiumbu, Gakungu and Ngomano survived with injuries.

Residents are now calling on KWS to intensify efforts to prevent further attacks and address the growing threat posed by wild animals straying into human settlements.