Tensions flared at Kanyuambora Police Post in Mbeere North, Embu County, as a family sought justice for 29-year-old Chrispin Munene, whose body they brought to the station.
On Saturday, the family demanded answers about Munene’s death after he was taken in by police following an alleged assault linked to theft accusations. They insisted that officers publicly read the Occurrence Book detailing the events leading to his death before they could proceed with his burial.
Family members reported that a resident had accused Munene of stealing a cooking gas cylinder, prompting a call for his arrest. When police hesitated, the accuser allegedly hired thugs who forcibly took Munene from his home, assaulted him, and delivered him to the police post in critical condition around 11 AM.
Despite his dire state, Munene wasn’t taken to the hospital until around 4 PM, and he was pronounced dead upon arrival at Ishiara Level 4 Hospital. His body was later moved to the hospital mortuary.
During the confrontation at the police post, Munene’s brother, Samuel Kivuti, expressed the family’s determination to uncover the truth before laying their loved one to rest. “We want the Occurrence Book read publicly so everyone knows what happened to our brother. We won’t bury him until we get answers,” he declared.
Mourner Eustace Kivuti echoed this sentiment, questioning how Munene could die just hours after police custody. “It’s painful and disturbing. We demand a thorough investigation and accountability,” he stated.
Munene’s sister, Jane Igoki, voiced her concerns for the community’s safety, saying, “If someone can go into a police station alive and end up in a mortuary, no one feels safe. We deserve answers.”
Another mourner, Brian Mapema, called for transparency from authorities, stating, “We want the truth. The family deserves answers, and the community needs to know what happened. Justice must be served.”
This incident raises fresh concerns about police conduct, especially following the recent deaths of two young men during protests over the state of Ishiara Level 4 Hospital. As of now, authorities have not released an official statement.
