Siaya: Seven cows, nine sheep killed in suspected arson

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

Residents believe that arsonists allegedly set the family’s cattle pen ablaze, burning the livestock beyond recognition.

The home’s caretaker told Citizen Digital that he was woken up by neighbours at around 4 a.m. and told the cattle pen was up in flames when he rushed there, only to find it already engulfed in the fierce fire with all the animals inside.

Through the help of locals, the caretaker tried to put out the fire in vain, adding that he only saved one sheep.

The family says that they suspect the fire was caused by one of their neighbours who has had problems with the caretaker.

The area Assistant Chief Millicent Otieno condemned the incident, saying that investigations have already been launched into the matter.

She warned that the suspects shall be brought to book.

The administrator also directed the family to bury the remains of the animals.