Police in Lang’ata Sub-County, Nairobi, have launched investigations into a tragic incident in which a 20-year-old man allegedly stabbed his father to death following a domestic dispute over the preparation of ugali, a staple Kenyan meal.
The deceased, Joseph Okello, aged 70, was killed on the spot after a heated confrontation with his son, Peter Olwenye, in Mugumoini location.
Ugali Cooking Argument Turns Fatal
According to witnesses, the altercation began when Okello questioned his son’s decision to start preparing ugali using water that had not fully boiled. What started as a disagreement over cooking reportedly escalated into a violent confrontation.
The father allegedly challenged the logic behind the cooking method, angering the suspect and triggering the fatal attack.
Mugumoini Senior Chief George Mukuria confirmed the incident, stating that the elderly man sustained multiple stab wounds to the back and neck, causing instant death.
Suspect Flees, Later Arrested
After the stabbing, the suspect reportedly fled the scene, raising alarm among residents. The area chief noted that the young man may have been under the influence of drugs at the time of the attack.
In a swift response, village elders and local youths mobilised and managed to trace the suspect to a hideout in the Soweto area. He was apprehended and handed over to Lang’ata Police Station officers, who were on patrol.
Body Moved to City Mortuary
Police processed the scene before transferring the body of the deceased to Nairobi Funeral Home, formerly known as City Mortuary, where it is being preserved pending a post-mortem examination.
Authorities have condemned the incident, describing it as a tragic case of domestic violence, and urged families to seek peaceful ways of resolving conflicts.
Investigations into the circumstances surrounding the killing are ongoing, and the suspect is expected to be arraigned in court once inquiries are complete.
