By Brenda Kubai
Grief and anger has engulfed Muroete village in Mutuati Sub-County, Meru County after a 17-year-old boy was allegedly killed by Nyumba Kumi members and his body dumped near his uncle’s home.
The body of the minor, identified as Ephantus Mwichuiri, was reportedly found in the early hours of the morning, sparking outrage among residents who now accuse Nyumba Kumi operatives of extrajudicial killings.
“I have known the boy to be a good person. I am shocked he died in such a manner,” said Andrew Mwiti, a neighbour.
Locals say Mwichuiri had no serious criminal history and insisted even if he had committed any crime, he did not deserve to die.
“There were allegations that the deceased was involved in petty theft but he should have been arrested and punished not killed,” another resident said.
Residents questioned the selective enforcement of justice, accusing Nyumba Kumi of targeting the vulnerable while known criminals remain untouched.
“He should have been taken through the law. If Nyumba Kumi continues like this, we fear they’ll wipe out an entire generation,” lamented Marget Kanathi Japheth.
The boy’s sister, Flora Karambu, said the family did not hear any struggles during the night and believes his brother was killed elsewhere before the body was dumped near the relative’s home.
“They even destroyed our utensils. We suspect my father may have been abducted by the same people,” she added.
Residents now say the community policing group is no longer serving its original purpose. “The real criminals are in Nyumba Kumi. They are not helping — they are the ones involved in the killings,” said Purity Wanja.
The deceased’s uncle, Rev. Charles Mung’athia, called on the government and investigative agencies to move swiftly and bring the perpetrators to justice.
“This is not just a family loss. It’s a wake-up call. We need the government to act — and act fast,” he said.
Efforts to get comments from the local Nyumba Kumi leadership were futile and the chairman remained unreachable by the time of going to press.
The community now wants the Nyumba Kumi initiative disbanded, citing loss of trust, abuse of power, and rising insecurity allegedly perpetrated by those meant to prevent it.
