The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has apprehended two suspects involved in an incident of mob justice in Nyamira County on Saturday, July 6, in which a man suspected of theft was thrown into a fire.
In a statement on Wednesday, July 30, the DCI said that detectives based in Nyamira North had used forensic analysis to track down the two suspects, who are now in police custody awaiting trial.
A video of the two men "mercilessly" assaulting a man suspected of being a thief and ultimately tossing him into a burning fire went viral on social media.
"The suspects were captured on distressing footage that has since gone viral on social media, depicting them mercilessly assaulting a man suspected of theft and ultimately tossing him into a burning fire," DCI stated.
"Through forensic analysis, detectives trailed the suspects and apprehended them. They are currently in custody, undergoing processing pending arraignment. Through forensic analysis, detectives trailed the suspects and apprehended them," it added.
Castigating the event, the detectives warned citizens against mob justice, noting that security agencies will take stiff legal action against individuals engaging in such acts.
According to the detectives, Kenyans should always step aside and let security agencies take the necessary action against offenders.
"The National Police Service expresses deep concern over the alarming rise in cases of mob injustice incidents and their severe implications for public safety," DCI stated.
"The public is urged to allow the justice system to take its course, as taking the law into one’s own hands will be met with the full force of the law," it added.
In Kenya, participation in mob justice, which is often classified as extrajudicial punishment, can lead to severe legal consequences, including lengthy prison sentences.
If the mob justice results in death, those involved could be charged with murder, which can result in life imprisonment.
Even if death does not occur, one can be charged with assault or conspiracy to commit violence, which can result in 14 years in jail.
