The family of Njoki, a middle-aged woman from Juja South, is seeking justice after she was brutally mauled to death by hyenas. Njoki, a local food vendor, was returning to her kibanda (small food kiosk) from the market when the attack occurred.
The horrific event took place at Juja South Estate, approximately four kilometers from the bustling Thika Super Highway. Njoki was on her way back after purchasing supplies for her daily operations, including kale and cabbages.
Witnesses reported that she was attacked by a pack of hyenas at dusk, a time when these wild animals are known to be most active. Her belongings were found scattered near the site of the attack, and the scene was described as gruesome, with the hyenas having inflicted severe injuries.
The local community is in shock and fear following the incident. Residents have long been concerned about the presence of wild animals in the area, and this tragedy has reignited those fears. Eyewitnesses expressed their horror at the attack and the ongoing threat posed by wildlife encroachment in Juja Sub-County.
Njoki’s family, led by her niece Martin Ngigi, has announced plans to take legal action against the Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS). Ngigi expressed the family’s deep grief and frustration, stating, “It is very sad to lose your aunt in this manner. It was not an accident or a disease; she was attacked and killed by wild animals. It is very painful.”
Following the incident, local police and KWS officers arrived at the scene to investigate. Njoki’s body was taken to Kenyatta University Funeral Home for a post-mortem examination, which will help determine the exact cause of death and provide more details about the nature of the attack.
This tragic event has highlighted the ongoing issue of wildlife encroachment in residential areas. Residents of Juja South have repeatedly voiced their concerns about the dangers posed by hyenas and other wild animals. The community is now calling for more effective measures to ensure their safety and prevent such incidents from happening again.
