EMBU, KENYA. Thursday, 14 August 2025
Violent clashes between rival miraa traders from Meru and Embu counties left several injured and diverted police resources just hours before the decomposing bodies of two young women were discovered in the Kapingazi River near Embu Town on Wednesday evening, police confirmed.
The bodies, found naked and bearing signs of strangulation near Matakari, were spotted by a passer-by as authorities were managing the aftermath of the market turf battle. Preliminary reports suggest the victims had been dumped prior to the trader violence.
Before police could secure the murder scene, residents identified a makeshift structure in a nearby thicket, believed linked to the killings and containing smartphones and women’s clothing. Enraged locals torched the shelter – destroying potential evidence – while officers were still deployed at the miraa clash sites.
“These incidents represent a deeply troubling escalation,” stated County Police Commander Jane Mwangi. “While containing the trader violence, we were simultaneously compromised in preserving the homicide scene. Both investigations are now urgent priorities.”
The victims’ bodies were moved to Embu Level 5 Hospital mortuary. Detectives have launched a manhunt for the killers and occupants of the destroyed hideout.
Residents expressed horror at the proximity of the events. “First fighting over miraa, then finding murdered girls? Our security is collapsing,” said Joseph Njeru, a local shopkeeper.
Mugo Mate, Chair of the Kenya National Chamber of Commerce and Industry (KNCCI) Embu Branch, condemned both incidents: “The trader violence is economically damaging, but the murders signify a grave security failure. We demand immediate, enhanced patrols and swift justice.”
Police appealed for witnesses to both the murders and the miraa clashes, offering anonymity. Security checkpoints have been reinforced along the Meru-Embu border.
