Two deeply troubling incidents in Makueni County have cast a spotlight on the urgent need to address domestic violence, as families and authorities come to terms with the brutal realities behind closed doors.
In the quiet village of Kitaingo, Kilome, a woman identified as Naomi Ndanu is recovering at Sultan Hamud Sub-County Hospital after surviving a horrific attack. According to her account, she was lured to her former home by her estranged husband under the pretense of collecting her belongings. Once inside, she says he locked the door and launched a vicious assault slashing her with a machete, beating her with a rungu, and inflicting severe bite wounds to her ears.
Medical personnel say her injuries are extensive, though she is currently in stable condition. The suspect fled the scene, and police have since launched a manhunt to bring him to justice.
Sadly, Naomi’s case is not isolated.
In a nearby village, another woman is hospitalized at Makueni Referral Hospital following an equally violent encounter with her ex-husband. In a devastating twist, her father who came to her aid during the attack was reportedly killed by the same man. The suspect in this second case is also on the run, and authorities are appealing to anyone with information to come forward.
Local leaders and residents have expressed concern over what appears to be a growing trend of gender-based violence in the region. Community groups are calling for urgent action, including counseling support for survivors, stronger enforcement of protection laws, and more proactive engagement between law enforcement and local families.
