Donkey Theft Sparks Outrage Among Kirinyaga Residents
She also raised concerns about local butcheries possibly selling donkey meat, warning that public health could be at risk.
A drove of donkey. Photo/ The Sanchuary of Donkeys.
By Juliet Jerotich
Kirinyaga County residents, particularly in the Mwea Constituency, are living in fear following a wave of donkey thefts that have left over 30 animals stolen and several slaughtered.
According to Mary Wambui, Chairperson of the local donkey owners’ association, unknown individuals have been targeting the animals during the early morning hours.
In a disturbing incident on Friday, eight donkeys were found slaughtered within the compound of Rurii Apostolic Church in Wamumu village, leaving the community in shock.
Miriam Njagi, one of the affected owners, said that the thieves appear to be using sedatives to avoid detection.
“A man working for us woke up around 3 a.m. after hearing dogs bark. He went back to sleep, and by 8 a.m., we discovered eight donkeys had been stolen,” she recounted.
Njagi added that the theft has caused financial strain, with the victims estimating losses of up to KSh 136,000. “This is not the first time—15 donkeys had already been stolen in earlier incidents. These donkeys are our livelihood. We use them to transport goods to the market,” she said.
Wambui has called on local authorities and security agencies to take urgent action. She also raised concerns about local butcheries possibly selling donkey meat, warning that public health could be at risk.
Wamumu Location Chief, Godfrey Mithamo, confirmed that one suspect had been arrested and is being held at Kiendegwa Police Post. He urged residents to work closely with law enforcement officers to curb the rising cases of donkey theft.
As investigations continue, the community remains on high alert, fearing further attacks on the animals that form the backbone of their livelihoods.
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