Several families in the Mariira location in Kigumo Sub County are appealing for help to find their missing loved ones following their unexplained disappearance since September 2024.
Unlike typical kidnapping cases where ransom demands or signs of struggle are evident, these individuals have vanished without a trace, leaving behind unanswered questions and growing anxiety in the community.
The first to disappear was Simon Kamau, a Form One student at Mariira Secondary School, who went missing on September 24, 2024, from his home in Ndaragua village.
His grandmother, Ann Waithira, recalled that on the day he vanished, Kamau had just returned from school and asked her for Sh. 150 to buy homework books; however, he never came back.
“I am appealing for help in finding my grandson. He left, saying he was going to buy books, but he never returned. We have searched everywhere, but he is nowhere to be found. I just want to know if he is safe,” Waithira said on Thursday when KNA visited the area.
Kamau’s case was followed by the disappearance of 75-year-old David Gitau from Kiritu village and James Njihia from neighbouring Gatwikira village on December 27 last year under mysterious circumstances.
Jane Nyambura, Njihia’s wife, said that it was during the festive season, and when two days passed without a word from him, she became worried and decided to initiate a search.
“When Sunday came and he was still missing, I knew something was wrong. I started a search for him. We have two daughters together,” lamented Nyambura.
The fourth case involves a retired military officer who disappeared on January 7. According to a friend, Patrick Karanja left his home at 5 am in the morning and has not been seen since then.
Mariira location Chief Beth Macharia noted that the mobile phones of all the missing individuals have been switched off since their disappearances. Further, there have been no transactions in their bank accounts.
“These disappearances have left the community shaken. We are working with law enforcers to piece together any available information and ensure that thorough investigations are carried out,” said Macharia.
Kigumo MP Joseph Munyoro dismissed speculations linking the disappearances to the recent wave of abductions and urged authorities to intensify efforts to solve the disappearances.
“The matter is under investigation by DCI officers attached at Murang’a. I urge the security team to come up with measures that prevent future similar cases.” Munyoro said.
By Bernard Munyao
