Shocked kin say they learnt of Mwenda's death through media

The family of slain boda boda operator Josphat Mwenda has said they learnt of his death through the media.

On Thursday, a shocked 75-year-old Mwenda’s uncle, Mbiiri Makembo, told the Nation at his home in Nthaara Village, Tharaka Sub-County, that he learnt of his kin’s death on July 4, 2016 as he listened to news on a local radio station.

The family was shocked to learn of the death, 12 days after he went missing, along with his lawyer Willie Kimani and taxi driver Joseph Muiruri.

The three were abducted on June 23 as they left a courtroom in Mavoko and their bodies were later discovered in a river in Ol-Donyo Sabuk, Machakos County.

Mr Makembo said they never believed the news until they called another relative living in Nairobi who confirmed to them that the said Mwenda was their son.

“I convened a family meeting yesterday (Wednesday) so that we could inquire more about Mwenda’s death but we are yet to get the details from police,” he said.

However, the deceased's sister, Judith Karimi, said Mwenda had informed them that his life was in danger after a police officer had shot him on the hand while arresting him.

She added that the deceased had also informed them he had taken the officer to court but were not aware of the progress of the case.

“We never expected this could lead to his death since the matter was already in court,” said Ms Karimi.

Neighbours led by Kirangare Assistant Chief Josphat Mpanda have urged the government to support Mwenda's family.

LEADERS CONDEMN KILLING

Local leaders led by Tharaka-Nithi Governor Samuel Ragwa have condemned the incident and called for thorough investigation to bring the killers to book.

In a press release, Mr Ragwa described the killing as a big blow to Mwenda’s family, considering that he was the sole breadwinner.

“The extrajudicial killings where police officers have been linked continue to ruin reputation of our police service,” said Mr Ragwa.