Wamuzi News Ke
In a brazen act of vandalism, unknown culprits broke into the newly constructed Marigat Sub‑county mortuary this week—making off with essential equipment, including all body trays and critical electrical cables. The facility, scheduled for commissioning, is now non‑operational, forcing bereaved families to journey long distances to ensure dignified burials.
Built to serve residents of Tiaty and Baringo South, the mortuary was fitted with a cold room capable of holding up to eight bodies. But before it even opened, thieves stripped all metallic fittings—including trays designed for preserving the deceased—and severed power connections. The damage threatens to delay key services indefinitely.
Community reaction has been swift and fierce. Local elders and a public health officer at Marigat Hospital expressed outrage, condemning the theft as not just a criminal act but a cultural violation. “The mortuary was meant to bring dignity and convenience to grieving families,” the officer stated. “Instead, it has become a symbol of vulnerability in publicly funded projects”.
Residents are now forced to transport the deceased to distant locations—Kabarnet, Eldama Ravine, or as far as Nakuru—adding emotional strain and financial burden at a tragic time.
Investigators point to a booming scrap-metal black market as the motive. Idle youth, lured by the value of copper and steel, continue to target infrastructure. Residents are now calling for a swift nationwide ban on scrap metal trade to stem the alarming trend.
Peripheral Damage: Agriculture Under Siege Too
The marauding has not been limited to mortuaries. The Perkerra Irrigation Scheme—one of Kenya’s oldest agricultural lifelines—has similarly been ravaged. Thieves have stolen gate valves and water-intake systems, crippling efforts to regulate water flow. As a result, canals either flood or run dry, leaving crops wilting and tensions mounting among farmers.
Daniel Waweru, manager of the irrigation board, issued a stark warning:
“Without these valves, water distribution fails. Some farms flood, others dry up—resentment bubbles between farmers.”
Government Alarmed, Police Launch Manhunt
Authorities in Baringo South have opened a formal criminal investigation. Assistant County Commission Fredrick Okoth warned that the government will no longer tolerate the destruction of public infrastructure. Police units are combing the region in search of suspects.
Local pressure is intensifying for decisive government intervention. If scrapping continues unchecked, essential county services—and community cohesion—may soon collapse.
