DCI arrests 2 Nyamira men filmed beating, burning suspected chicken thief

Police have arrested two men from Nyamira County after a horrifying video showed a man being viciously beaten and thrown into a fire over allegations of chicken theft. The brutal incident occurred on July 26, 2025, in Nyamira North.

The widely circulated footage shows the victim tied up and lying by the roadside as a fire burns nearby. Two men are captured mercilessly beating him while a crowd watches; the duo then drags the victim closer to the flames before both suspects hurl him into the fire.

Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed the arrest of the suspects, identified as James Nyang'au Kieri and Evans Nyang'au Anyoka.

In a statement shared on their official X (formerly Twitter) account, the DCI said the two men were positively identified from the disturbing footage.

"James Nyang'au Kieri and Evans Nyang'au Anyoka were captured on distressing footage that has since gone viral on social media, depicting them mercilessly assaulting a man suspected of theft and ultimately tossing him into a burning fire," read part of the DCI statement.

TWO IN CUSTODY OVER MOB INJUSTICE INCIDENT IN NYAMIRA

Two suspects have been taken into custody by Nyamira North Detectives following a disturbing mob injustice incident that unfolded on July 26, 2025.

The suspects, identified as James Nyang'au Kieri and Evans Nyang'au Anyoka,... pic.twitter.com/pvKGtHI4LG

- DCI KENYA (@DCI_Kenya) July 30, 2025

DCI officers used forensic analysis to track down the suspects, who are now in custody as investigations continue. Police said the duo will be arraigned in court once the probe is complete.

The National Police Service (NPS) has condemned the barbaric act, terming it a clear case of mob injustice. In a statement, they called on Kenyans to uphold the rule of law and report criminal suspects to the relevant authorities instead of resorting to violence.

"This incident highlights a worrying trend of citizens taking the law into their own hands. Such actions will not be tolerated," said a senior officer.

Authorities have promised to ensure justice is served and that all those involved are held accountable. The condition of the victim remains unclear as police continue to piece together the events surrounding the attack.