Residents of North East Kadem in Nyatike were left gripped by a puzzling burial that left police on high alert.
A 40-year-old man, who had been unwell for some time, was laid to rest within hours of his death, but without the dignity of a coffin or a formal funeral ceremony.
According to North East Kadem Location Chief, John Bosco Akal, the man’s body was wrapped in an old blanket and hurriedly buried in the family homestead.
Neighbours were left puzzled as there were no funeral rites, prayers, or the usual community gathering that typically accompanies burials in the region.
Investigations suggest that the decision was influenced by longstanding grievances within the family and the community.
Relatives reportedly argued that the deceased had failed to contribute towards burial costs whenever others in the area passed away, and they were therefore unwilling to cater for his mortuary fees, coffin, or other arrangements.
Chief Akal confirmed the incident, noting that it was rare to see such a denial of customary rites.
Why did police summon the man’s relatives?
“The family members said they could not shoulder expenses for a man who never helped others in their time of need,” he stated.
The burial, carried out in secrecy and with minimal participation, has since attracted the attention of both locals and law enforcement.
Police officers have already summoned several relatives to record statements.
Authorities are now examining whether the incident breached any laws or if it was purely a family decision tied to cultural traditions and personal disputes.
Why was a Gatundu man buried in 15 minutes?
The Migori incident came barely a month after a similar rushed burial in Kiambu, with residents of Kiganjo Wandutu village left in shock as Julius Mbogo was laid to rest within 15 minutes.
The burial was allegedly linked to a dispute between his two wives, which saw him interred immediately upon arrival at his home without a service or final rites.
His body was lowered into a prepared grave as mourners watched in disbelief, with many saying they had no time to pay their last respects.
The unusual send-off stirred conversations on property disputes, polygamy, and the need for families to make proper arrangements to avoid bitter conflicts.
by: TUKO.co.ke journalist Harry Ivan Mboto has over three years of experience reporting on politics and current affairs in Kenya
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