Woman hacked to death in Machakos, suspect killed by mob

In a distressing turn of events in Machakos County, a woman was brutally hacked to death and, shortly afterwards, the alleged attacker was lynched by an angry mob. According to StreamlineFeed, the incident occurred in Mwanyani village near Machakos town, where residents say the suspect—reportedly the victim’s partner—slashes her in a violent attack. Streamline The community, incensed by the killing, gave chase and overtook the man, exacting mob justice before law enforcement could intervene. Streamline+2Nyanza Daily+2
According to authorities, the victim was identified as Susan Nyaboke, who was attacked while walking, leading to fatal wounds on her neck. The Star+1 The suspect, whose identity has not been publicly confirmed, allegedly used a machete and knives in the assault, weapons that were later recovered at the scene. The Star Despite the swift and violent intervention by the mob, police have opened an investigation into both the homicide and the lynching. Nyanza Daily
Reactions across Machakos have been mixed but deeply emotional. Community members claim the mob’s actions were driven by outrage and a perceived failure of the justice system to protect women, especially in violent domestic disputes. Nyanza Daily On the other hand, human rights observers are warning against taking the law into one’s hands, citing the dangers of vigilante justice and undermining due process. Local leaders are calling for calm and for authorities to swiftly arrest anyone else involved in the incident.
Looking forward, the case highlights deep-rooted concerns about gender-based violence and community trust in policing in Machakos County. Police have indicated they will pursue forensic investigations, including post‑mortems, to clarify the sequence of events. The Star Meanwhile, the county’s leadership says it will engage civil society and security agencies to prevent future incidents of mob justice and to strengthen efforts around domestic violence prevention.