Tension gripped the Emanwa location in Nyamache, Kisii County, after a man was lynched by villagers for allegedly killing his father during a domestic feud.
Police said the incident happened on Saturday, September 20, 2025, when 32-year-old Enock Obwaya attacked his father, James Ongige Obwaya, aged 80, following a quarrel at their homestead.
According to witnesses, Enock struck his father repeatedly on the head with a club as his mother tried to intervene. Her screams for help went unanswered as the elderly man collapsed with severe injuries.
Alarmed villagers rushed to assist the victim and attempted to take him to hospital. However, the suspect, who had by then armed himself with a panga, allegedly chased them away, threatening to harm anyone who tried to intervene.
Out of fear, the neighbours abandoned the rescue effort, leaving the injured man lying on a footpath outside his gate. He bled to death during the night.
When residents learned of the death the following morning, they mobilised and launched a manhunt for the suspect. Enock, who had attempted to flee to a neighbouring village, was cornered by the mob. He was beaten to death before his body was set on fire.
Police officers arrived later and moved both bodies to the mortuary pending post-mortem examinations.
Investigations have since revealed that Enock had been released on bail just two days earlier, on Thursday, September 18, 2025, after facing assault charges at the Ogembo Law Courts.
His father, James, was a key witness in that case. Police believe bitterness over the pending case was the motive behind the fatal attack.
Local residents confirmed the long-running family dispute, saying Enock appeared resentful after his release from custody. They added that the killing and subsequent lynching reflect a worrying trend in the area.
Police have raised concern over the rising number of violent killings and mob justice incidents in Kisii and neighbouring counties, many of them linked to family feuds and land disputes.
Authorities say they are intensifying efforts to address the cases and restore community trust in legal processes.
