Residents protest in Nyagithuci over death of man assaulted by forest officer

The demonstrators, led by Jackson Kibara, Fredrick Gachoki, and the deceased’s brother, James Kariuki, claimed that the victim, David Munene, was arrested by a forest officer three days ago and taken to Kerugoya Police Station.

According to Kariuki, Munene had sustained serious injuries at the time of his arrest.

“The court ordered that my brother be taken to hospital because he was badly injured. He was first admitted at Kerugoya Referral Hospital and later referred to Embu Level 5 Hospital, where he died last night,” he said.

Angry residents are now calling for the arrest and prosecution of the officer involved.

“These forest officers are known to beat people they find in the forest. Now Munene is dead — who will take care of his wife and children?” posed Gachoki.

Residents, many of whom live near Mt. Kenya Forest, said they occasionally collect firewood and have at times coexisted peacefully with forest officers. They questioned why the officer allegedly resorted to violence in this case.

“We believe the officer had ill intentions and meant to harm Munene. He must be arrested and prosecuted,” said one of the protesters.

Kirinyaga Police Commander Mohammed Jire confirmed the incident, stating that Munene died while undergoing treatment at Embu Level 5 Hospital.

Jire said Munene was brought to Kerugoya Police Station by forest officers and was immediately taken to hospital due to the severity of his injuries.

He added that Munene was later presented before a Kerugoya court, where he complained of pain. The court ordered that he remain in police custody as he continued receiving treatment.

However, his condition worsened, prompting his transfer to Embu Level 5 Hospital, where he died.

The police commander said the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched investigations into the matter.

“Once investigations are complete, those found culpable will be arrested and charged with murder. No one is allowed to assault another person under Kenyan law. The officers who brought him to the station are known, and investigations are ongoing,” Jire said.