Three arrested over cow slaughter in Mukuru-Kayaba

BY SAMMY KIMATU
Three suspects have been arrested in Mukuru-Kayaba slum, South B, Starehe Sub-County, in connection with the alleged slaughter of a cow in broad daylight.

Police said the suspects were arrested over the weekend and are being held for questioning as detectives from Makadara investigate the incident.

Mukuru-Kayaba Area Chief Edwin Murunga told journalists that the three suspects were youths from the area.

According to the chief, the cow was grazing alongside other cattle when the suspects allegedly began cutting its legs with sharp pangas.

“The cow was in great pain and forced its way into a church along Mandazi Road in the middle of Kayaba slum,” Mr Murunga said.

He said local residents and Nyumba Kumi elders helped police track down the suspects following the incident.

Two arrested at night

“Two of the suspects were arrested during the night with the help of Nyumba Kumi elders,” Mr Murunga said.

The third suspect was arrested after he was allegedly found in possession of the cow’s head.

Mr Murunga said the suspect claimed he was preparing the head to make soup when questioned by authorities.

Police have not disclosed the identity of the cow’s owner or explained how the animal came to be in the suspects’ possession.

Residents familiar with the incident told journalists that the cow is believed to have been owned by a Maasai herder.

The suspects remain in police custody as detectives continue with investigations. They are expected to face further legal action depending on the outcome of the inquiry.

Authorities have urged residents with information about the incident to cooperate with investigators.

The incident has drawn attention in the informal settlement, where residents and local leaders are working with security agencies through community policing initiatives to address crime and other security concerns.

Police said investigations are ongoing.