Malava, Kakamega County — Tension continues to grip Msalaba Village after an enraged mob burned down the home of the Mavala Township sub-location assistant chief. The violent protest, triggered by the killing of two men accused of livestock theft, has left the community reeling with fear and confusion.
According to reports, chaos erupted early Tuesday when residents stormed Malava Hospital to retrieve the bodies of the deceased before marching to the chief’s homestead. There, they set his houses ablaze, accusing him of conspiring with locals to kill the men, who they claim were innocent livestock traders.
Eyewitnesses narrated the harrowing chain of events. The two victims were intercepted by the assistant chief on Monday night during a prohibited nighttime livestock movement. Unable to provide satisfactory answers, they allegedly faced a brutal assault that led to their deaths while receiving treatment at Malava Hospital.
“Alikutana na vijana saa saba usiku, assistant chifu aliwauliza mmetoa ngombe wapi ndio wakaanza kuzozana,” said Charles Soita, a resident. “Wakashindwa kujibu ndio mzozo ukaanza kabla ya wao kuvamiwa.”Villagers who believe the deceased were legitimate livestock traders expressed their fury through destructive acts.
“Hao watu hawakuwa wezi ni wachurusi wa ngombe,” said Titus Lumbasi, another resident.Ann Nazala, recalling the chaotic scenes, said, “Walikuja hapa na miili wakachoma nyumba na kuzibomoa.”
The dramatic confrontation forced the assistant chief to flee for his life, narrowly escaping the wrath of the infuriated crowd. Residents criticized the local police, alleging negligence despite knowing about potential violence.
“Police walijua kungekuwa na uvamizi lakini hawakushughulika,” added Soita.
Malava Sub-County Police Commander Paul Mwenda confirmed the incident, cautioning residents against mob justice and pledging a thorough investigation. “No one is above the law, and justice will prevail,” he said, warning that retaliatory violence would not be tolerated.
Community Divided as Calls for Justice Mount
The tragic episode has left Msalaba Village divided, with some siding with the victims’ families and others calling for stricter measures against livestock theft. Social media platforms have lit up with debates about the ethics of mob justice versus the need for swift legal action.
As the dust settles, authorities now face the critical task of restoring peace and addressing the underlying tensions in a community shaken by suspicion, mistrust, and vigilante actions.
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