The wells, which are dug to support farming during the dry season, have reportedly become dangerous, especially at night.
Local residents, including Alice Wanjiru, Edward Muiruri, Nancy Wanjiru and Edy Kabuti, say several men have died after falling into the wells while returning home late at night.
The latest incident involved 65-year-old Tarasiah Mwangi Kara, whose body was discovered in a well near his homestead.
According to residents, Mwangi was last seen at a local bar, and it is suspected that he fell into the well while heading home.
“Mwangi’s wife raised the alarm after he failed to return home, as he had never spent a night away before. It was my neighbour who discovered the body in the well as we searched for him,” said Edward Muiruri.
Residents have linked the incidents to the rising consumption of second-generation illicit alcohol in the area.
Nancy Wanjiru claimed that the brew, commonly sold in local bars, leaves consumers severely intoxicated and unable to walk.
“Men cannot walk after drinking that deadly alcohol and are falling into wells. The brew has affected villagers here and across Kirinyaga County,” said Edy Kabuti.
The residents questioned why the illicit alcohol continues to be sold despite the risks.
“Even security agencies may not be aware because people are reluctant to report it, yet many men are consuming this alcohol,” said Alice Wanjiru.
