Three suspected robbers were killed by an angry mob and their bodies set ablaze in Machakos town after they were allegedly caught attempting to steal a vehicle belonging to a miraa trader.
Confirming the incident, John Musembi Kisalu said the three suspects had reportedly posed as passengers before turning against the driver near the offices of the Machakos County Government.
According to the chief, the suspects allegedly attacked the driver using machetes in an apparent carjacking attempt.
Driver Escaped and Raised Alarm
The driver reportedly managed to escape from the attackers and began screaming for help, attracting the attention of residents in the area.
Members of the public responded and found the suspects allegedly attempting to flee with the vehicle.
Witnesses said the crowd pursued the suspects and cornered them before violence erupted.
Mob Justice Turns Deadly
The three men were beaten to death by the mob before their bodies were set on fire in a shocking incident that attracted large crowds of onlookers.
The incident is the latest in a series of mob justice cases reported in different parts of the country, highlighting growing concerns over public frustration with crime and the dangers of taking the law into one’s own hands.
Police Launch Investigations
Police officers later arrived at the scene and collected the remains of the three suspects.
The bodies were transferred to the mortuary at Machakos Level 5 Hospital pending further investigations and identification.
Authorities have since launched investigations into both the alleged attempted vehicle theft and the circumstances surrounding the mob killings.
Police continue to urge members of the public to hand over criminal suspects to law enforcement agencies rather than resorting to mob justice, which remains illegal and can result in loss of life and the destruction of crucial evidence.
