A man died on Thursday morning after jumping from the second floor of the Lake Basin Mall in Kisumu, authorities have confirmed.
Kisumu Central Deputy Sub-County Police Commander Bakari Mwanauli said the incident occurred about 8 am.
The victim, identified as Juma Hanington Raburu, is said to have driven into the mall and parked his white Toyota Land Cruiser V8 before entering the Kenya Revenue Authority (KRA) offices located on the second floor.
“Mr Raburu left his vehicle keys with a security guard and instructed that his son should come for the car. He then proceeded to the second floor, where the KRA offices are, before throwing himself down,” Mr Mwanauli said.
Mr Mwanauli added that detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have launched a probe to establish the motive behind the incident.
Speculation on social media claimed the deceased had been hit with a tax assessment of up to Sh300 million, suggesting financial strain could have played a role in the tragedy.
KRA has, however, dismissed the claims while sympathising with the bereaved family. In its official statement, the agency conveyed condolences and said it is assisting authorities with investigations.
“KRA deeply regrets this incident and conveys heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of the deceased. The matter has been reported to the relevant authorities, and investigations are currently underway to establish the circumstances surrounding the incident. KRA is fully cooperating with law enforcement officers to facilitate the ongoing investigations,” read the statement.
A KRA officer, who is not authorised to speak, said the alleged tax arrears claims circulating online are inaccurate and misleading
Mr Raburu is reported to have been an assistant civil engineer at Gogni Rajope Construction Co. Ltd, a Kenyan engineering firm with offices in Nairobi and Kisumu that handles building and infrastructure projects, including those supported by international organisations.
