A 14-year-old Grade Five pupil at Kathungu Comprehensive School was killed on Tuesday evening in an attack linked to suspected armed pastoralists in Ukasi, Nguni Ward, Mwingi Central Constituency, Kitui County.
The boy was reportedly grazing cattle with a friend when they were attacked. His friend escaped and ran to seek help.
Confirming the incident , Nguni Ward MCA Jeremiah Musee Mutua said the grade pupil was slashed to death and called for the arrest of those behind the killing.
He urged authorities in the neighbouring county to help identify and hand over the suspects for prosecution.
“This cannot continue. Those responsible must be brought to book,” said the MCA.
The incident triggered protests, with angry residents barricading the Garissa-Mwingi-Thika Highway, disrupting transport as they demanded immediate government intervention over rising insecurity.
The killing comes days after seven people were killed in Kwa Kamari in Tseikuru, in an attack blamed on suspected armed pastoralists, raising fresh concerns over recurring violence linked to grazing disputes in the region.
Residents said the latest attack, involving a school-going child, has heightened fear and anger in the area.
Security agencies had not issued an official statement by Tuesday evening, even as tension remained high in Ukasi.
