Ithanga, Murang’a County – Tragedy struck in Kabuku River, Ithanga, on Wednesday after a 37-year-old man was killed by a hippopotamus while crossing near the scene.
The victim, identified as John Njoroge, was heading home from work when the hippo attacked him. Witnesses said he sustained severe injuries to the waist, legs, and chest, leading to heavy bleeding.
He was rushed to a nearby hospital but was pronounced dead while undergoing treatment. His body has since been moved to a local mortuary for preservation and postmortem.
Police confirmed the incident, adding that officers from the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) have been notified to handle the situation. Authorities also advised the bereaved family to pursue compensation as provided for in wildlife-related human fatality cases.
Local residents have raised concerns over the increasing number of hippos in rivers across the area, calling for swift intervention to prevent further loss of life.
