A 40-year-old caretaker of a private residence in Casuarina Village, Malindi, Kilifi County, has died after he was allegedly assaulted by unknown attackers.

The incident occurred at about 1.30am on October 5, 2026, at a residence belonging to an Italian couple who are currently abroad, according to police.

The deceased, identified as Fikiri Zimba Ngwaro, was reportedly alone at the property when the incident occurred.

Police officers who visited the scene said the residence is secured by a nine-foot perimeter wall topped with broken glass, a metal gate and an alarm system operated by Sentry Security Company.

Neighbour raises alarm after hearing screams

Ngwaro reportedly sustained a deep cut to the head and an injury to his left knee during the alleged attack.

A neighbour is said to have heard screams during the night and attempted to contact Ngwaro by phone, but he did not respond.

At about 6am, the neighbour went to the residence and found Ngwaro seriously injured. She returned to her house and activated her Sentry security alarm, prompting security guards to respond.

The guards rushed Ngwaro to Malindi Sub-County Hospital, where he was admitted in critical condition.

He was later referred to Kilifi Referral Hospital but was pronounced dead on arrival while being transferred.

Police probe possible burglary

Police said the kitchen at the residence had reportedly been ransacked.

Two solar batteries and an inverter of unknown make and value were also reported missing from the property.

The missing items have raised the possibility that the incident could have been linked to a burglary, although investigators have yet to establish the motive or identify the attackers.

Police are continuing to investigate the circumstances surrounding Ngwaro’s death and the reported break-in.