Police in Nyamira County have arrested three men accused of assaulting a woman during a burial ceremony in Kiambere, Mwongorisi Sub-location.
The suspects, aged between 43 and 27, allegedly coerced the woman into taking part in traditional rituals against her will, before physically attacking her and causing injuries.
In an undated video, the men are seen forcing the woman to throw soil into the grave as a farewell gesture to the deceased. When she resisted, they reportedly whipped her.
“This incident is not only unfortunate but also deeply troubling, as it shows a complete lack of civility and respect for basic human dignity,” the police said in a statement.
According to the police, the March 21, 2025, incident was rooted in a long-standing family dispute. The woman had been separated from the deceased for nine years, but after his recent death in a road accident, her former mother-in-law invited her to bring their children to the funeral.
“As the burial proceeded, the woman was confronted by her in-laws, who insisted she perform the customary rite of throwing soil into the grave,” said a senior officer involved in the investigation. “When she refused, they allegedly became violent, accusing her of causing her ex-husband’s death.”
The suspects are currently in custody at Kiambere Police Station, where they are being processed ahead of their court appearance.
Meanwhile, police are working to identify and apprehend other individuals believed to be involved in the attack.
