Two decomposing bodies were discovered in Matakari, Embu County.
Detectives are investigating the mysterious deaths of two women whose bodies were found dumped in a stream in the Matakari, Embu County, on Wednesday.
The decomposing bodies were discovered by residents who had gone to fetch water from the stream.
It is suspected that the women—who remain unidentified—were murdered elsewhere before their bodies were thrown into the stream in an attempt to conceal evidence.
Embu County Police Commander Samuel Muthamia said initial findings point to homicide.
“They have not been identified by locals and we don’t know their relatives. This is a case of homicide and we are working to unravel the mystery,” he said.
Mr Muthamia appealed to residents to cooperate with investigators and provide any information that could help identify the victims or their killers.
“It is baffling that the bodies were in an advanced stage of decomposition yet we have not received any reports of missing persons,” he added.
Embu County Police Commander Samuel Muthamia.
He said security in the area had been beefed up and bushes believed to have served as criminal hideouts cleared.
“We have never had such an incident here and it is quite baffling. Those found responsible will face the full force of the law,” he warned.
Residents said the faces of the women were badly disfigured, leading to speculation that the killings were carried out by criminals who have recently been terrorising the area.
“I was at home working when I heard that two lifeless bodies of women had been found floating in Matakari Stream. I abandoned my work and rushed to the scene. On arrival, I was shocked to see the decomposing bodies,” said Ms Beth Kariuki.
Another resident , Joseph Simba, lamented what he described as worsening insecurity in the area, saying locals were living in fear.
“We have been complaining about insecurity, but nothing is being done. The murder of these women shows the situation is serious, and security agencies should get to the bottom of it,” said Mr Simba.
Area Chief Titus Mugambi said he was on official duty when he was informed of the incident.
“I went to the scene to confirm and later called the police. The bodies were taken to Embu Level Five Hospital mortuary for a postmortem,” he said.
