A 55-year-old night security guard was hacked to death outside a church in the Juakali area of Kakamega County in what police suspect may have been a targeted killing.
The victim, identified as Pius Ngwete, was found lying in a pool of blood outside the Maraba SDA Church on the evening of July 1, 2025, with deep head wounds inflicted by a sharp object.
“He had severe cuts to the head. Nothing was stolen from the premises, so robbery does not appear to be the motive,” a Kakamega police officer told sauce.co.ke.
Police say Ngwete, who had served as a night watchman at the church, may have been targeted for reasons unrelated to his job, though they have not ruled out any possibilities.
The church compound was found undisturbed, and no signs of theft or break-in were noted, intensifying the mystery surrounding the murder.
The body was transferred to a local mortuary for autopsy, as detectives continue combing the area for leads. No arrests have been made so far.
The Maraba SDA Church congregation and Juakali residents have been left shocked and fearful following the brutal murder, calling for heightened night patrols and security in the area.
“We knew him as a humble man. He never had enemies as far as we could tell,” said a church elder during a brief vigil held by members.
