Meru County authorities have extended the detention of three men accused of lynching three elderly residents of Gitine Village, Igoji, over allegations of witchcraft. Collins Mwiti, Morris Mwiti, and Dennis Mwiti appeared at Nkubu Court on Monday, June 7, 2021, as the judicial process continues. The suspects are charged with murder following the violent incident that has shocked the local community and drawn national attention.
The killings reportedly stemmed from accusations of witchcraft, a persistent issue in parts of Meru County where cultural beliefs sometimes fuel violent reprisals. Local law enforcement has emphasized that the rule of law will be upheld, warning communities against taking justice into their own hands. Authorities continue to investigate the circumstances surrounding the deaths, including any wider networks that may have incited the attacks.
Community leaders and residents have condemned the killings, calling for heightened awareness and education on the dangers of superstition-driven violence. Looking ahead, the judiciary is expected to deliberate on the suspects’ case while the county government considers preventive measures to protect vulnerable populations and ensure such tragedies are not repeated.