Nyandarua: Man dies in police cell as family demands answers

A 44-year-old man has died while in police custody at Turasha Police Post in Githioro Ward, Kipipiri Constituency in Nyandarua County.

According to a police report, Simon Thumbi Kihanya, also known as Rûîgì, was arrested on Monday morning for allegedly obstructing police officers while intoxicated.

He was booked into custody at 10:30AM but was found dead less than two hours later.

Police say, between 11:36AM and 12:49PM, the officer on duty discovered Thumbi had committed suicide inside the police cell by hanging himself using his shirt tied to the padlock of the inner door.

The scene has been secured pending further forensic analysis by crime scene experts.

Despite the official confirmation, the incident has sparked public concern and calls for an independent investigation.

Nyandarua County Commissioner Abdirisack Jaldesa confirmed that investigations are ongoing and urged the public to remain calm.

“The government is doing everything possible to unearth what really transpired. We ask the public to give us time and remain peaceful as the investigation proceeds,” said Commissioner Jaldesa.

Jaldesa further said the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has taken over the case, and a postmortem examination will be conducted to establish the exact cause of death.

Speaking on the matter, area MCA Isaac Mbae called on the government to take full responsibility and provide closure by telling the family the truth about what happened to their loved one while in police custody.

Mbae further revealed that the family has blocked police officers from transferring the body to Gilgil Sub-County Hospital Mortuary in Nakuru County, insisting it be taken to Engineer Hospital Mortuary in Nyandarua County instead.