Interior Cabinet Secretary Dr Fred Matiang’i has condemned the attack on the Sigalagala National Polytechnic student who was hacked to death in Khayega market in Shinyalu Township.
The July 12 incident was brought to the knowledge of Kenyans and authorities after a graphic video of the helpless student, suspected of stealing a chicken, being hacked with a panga by one Francis Muse alias Moi, was shared on various social media platforms.
The video that went viral on Sunday shows Mr Muse cutting the victim, whose names are yet to be confirmed, into pieces mercilessly as the villagers watched in awe.
The suspected thief reportedly sustained serious injuries that led to his death.
According to Dr Matiang’i, 26 persons have been arrested in connection with the incident and are helping the authorities with the investigation.
“Those arrested include the acting Chief of the area, suspected murderer, the owner of the crude weapon used in the murder, as well as individuals who stood by and watched the merciless act unfold without taking any action,” said Dr Matiang’i.
Mr. Francis Muse LISECHE alias Moi alias President who was captured on a viral video savagely cutting a man on allegations of stealing a CHICKEN has been arrested by #DCI Detectives from the HQs.Three other suspects also arrested including the owner of the alleged stolen chicken. pic.twitter.com/RcUl6CLj2i
— DCI KENYA (@DCI_Kenya) July 28, 2019
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He further added that the area chief who was in a very close proximity of the scene of crime failed to take any administrative action.
Seven people, who were arrested, have already appeared before Kakamega High Court.
Moreover, the security minister expressed concern on the regular occurrence of violent crime with impunity in the area.
“Together with the Inspector General’s directive we will have an operation to flush out criminals until all those responsible for conducting or abetting these reprehensible acts and face the full force of the law,” noted Dr Matiang’i.
Dr Matiang’i urged the residents not to take law into their own hands but to report criminal activity of any form to the nearest police station without fear of recrimination. He said only courts of law can establish one’s guilty or innocence.
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