Maize is our staple food for a reason. It is a very hardy
crop that can grow with minimal watering and also minimal care. In essence, it
is an easily manageable crop that can be used in many different meals from githeri to
boiled maize to roasted maize to making ugali. Even making popcorn. It is
versatile and that is in no doubt.
But should it cause the death of a relative? One such disturbing incident occurred in Shimalavandu village where a man named Martin Musieka clobbered his own nephew to death. The victim of this unfortunate beating was Brevan Musieka, who did something that was a crime, that is agreed but not the kichapo he received for it!
Apparently, the 21-year-old had stolen a 4kgs of maize and a
T-shirt belonging to his uncle. His uncle, dealt with his nephew like he was a
borrowed donkey.
To conceal the murder, the suspect dug a grave in his banana plantation but was ambushed by neighbours while trying to bury the body on Thursday night.
But like Moses who killed an Egyptian thinking he would not
be discovered, the man’s neighbours found out about his evil deed and were
furious. Helen Mbogo a relative said:
“How Do You Kill A Person Who Has Been Working For You
Because Of Having Taken Maize? We Will Not Allow The Suspect To Come Back Here.
He Should Have Talked To The Victim Rather Than Killing Him.”
Another source of contention for the villagers was the
manner in which Martin decided to deal with his actions. He had decided to
cover up the crime by burying the body in his farm. Helen added:
“Before We Learned Of The Victim’s Death, Residents Had Raised
Eyebrows Of His Whereabouts But The Suspect Chased Them From His Compound And
Told Us That His Nephew Was Alright And Would Return Home That Day Only For Us
To Be Told Later In The Evening That He Was Dead,”
The body has been taken to Kakamega County Referral
Mortuary. The suspect was arrested by the police before the baying public could
lynch him.
Quotes courtesy of Standardmedia.
