By Nuru Salim.
Police in Likoni, Mombasa County, have launched an investigation following the discovery of a dismembered female body stuffed inside two sacks and left outside a residential property. The incident has sparked outrage and renewed calls for action against gender-based violence in the country.
Likoni Sub-County Police Commander Geoffrey Ruhani confirmed the recovery of the remains, noting that the victim’s identity and circumstances surrounding her death remain unclear.
The body was discovered when a resident went to dispose off garbage and noticed the suspicious sacks, prompting an immediate report to the authorities.
Likoni Member of Parliament Mishi Mboko condemned the killing in the strongest terms, describing it as “inhuman and devilish.” She stated, “No human being should associate themselves with such barbaric acts. This is not just a crime; it is a violation of humanity. The perpetrators of such acts have no place in our society, and they must be brought to justice swiftly.”
Mboko also called on President William Ruto to fulfill his commitment to tackling femicide and gender-based violence (GBV). “The President has previously pledged funds to address the rising cases of femicide and GBV in this country. I remind him of that promise today. Women’s lives are at stake, and we cannot afford to wait any longer. The time for action is now,” she emphasized.
The MP further urged security agencies to guarantee the safety of women across the country. “Women in Kenya deserve to live without fear. They deserve the right to life, just like anyone else. Who is responsible for protecting these rights? It is the government’s duty to ensure that women are safe in their homes, on the streets, and everywhere in between. Security agencies must give us a clear plan on how they intend to protect women from such atrocities,” Mishi Mboko asserted.
She also questioned the broader societal responsibility in safeguarding women’s rights. “Every woman has the right to life, dignity, and security. Yet, we continue to see these rights being violated in the most horrific ways. Who is responsible for protecting these rights? Is it the government, the community, or each one of us as individuals?” she stressed.
“This is inhuman. No woman should ever have to come across such a horrific fate. It is heartbreaking to see such brutality in our community. We are living in fear, and this must stop,” Juma said.
The case has further fueled outrage amid a surge in gender-based violence across Kenya. Recent statistics reveal that the country recorded at least 500 femicide cases between 2016 and 2023, with 86 cases reported in 2023 alone.
Advocacy groups have highlighted that many of these cases go unpunished, underscoring systemic failures in addressing gender-based violence.
The incident has reignited public debate over Kenya’s commitment to combating femicide, with advocates urging immediate action to protect women and girls.