A 21-year-old man has been arrested in Kiminini, Trans Nzoia County, after a 22-year-old farmhand died following a physical confrontation sparked by a dispute over a mobile phone.
The suspect, identified by police as Samuel Kemboi, was arrested after detectives, officers from Kiungani Police Station and members of the public mounted a chase shortly after the incident in Tawai village.
According to a report filed at Kiungani Police Station, the victim, Stephen Ndungu, had only been hired as a farmhand a day before the confrontation that ended in his death.
Police said the disagreement between Ndungu and Kemboi started on the afternoon of August 24, 2026, after the two differed over a mobile phone.
The argument later turned violent, with Kemboi allegedly “rained heavy fists and blows” on Ndungu during the physical fight.
Ndungu collapsed during the assault and died at the scene, according to police.
When officers arrived, they found visible injuries on the victim’s head, face and stomach, raising concerns over the severity of the assault.
Kemboi was later cornered and arrested following a swift pursuit by detectives and officers from Kiungani Police Station, who were assisted by members of the public.
The suspect remains in police custody as Kiminini detectives investigate the events leading to Ndungu’s death.
Police said the investigations will be completed before Kemboi is taken to court to face charges.
Meanwhile, Ndungu’s body was transferred to Kiminini Cottage Mortuary, where it is being preserved pending a post-mortem examination. The examination is expected to help establish the exact cause of his death.
The incident adds to cases of violent crime being investigated by police, with members of the public continuing to play a role in helping officers trace and arrest suspects.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has urged anyone with information about criminal activities to report it anonymously through its toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp number 0709 570 000.