Police in Kyuso sub-county, Kitui, are investigating the deaths of at least four people from Nganda Village in Kimangau location due to suspected food poisoning.
Kyuso OCPD Edwin Otieno confirmed the deaths on Monday. The victims had gathered on Sunday at the home of Muthui Kasovo for a community event to help dig a pit for a latrine, where they were served a large meal.
“After returning to their homes in the evening, they experienced stomach issues and were rushed to Kyuso Level IV hospital,” Otieno reported. “Three of the individuals were confirmed dead on arrival, and the fourth died while receiving treatment. Five others are currently hospitalized in critical condition.”
There were claims from Nganda Village that the victims had consumed traditional Kaluvu beer laced with poison. However, Otieno stated, “We do not have information confirming that they drank Kaluvu. Our current information indicates that the three who died were involved in digging the latrine and consumed food at the event.”
An investigation has begun to determine the cause of the deaths. Otieno noted that, as the food consumed was from the home of the host, the host’s wife, who served the food, has been arrested.
“The wife of the man who hosted the gathering has been detained because she served the food. Unfortunately, her husband, who was also a guest, is among the deceased,” he said.
The arrested woman could face murder charges if the postmortem report confirms that the deaths were due to poisoning.
