by Maxwell Amunga
Monday June 1, 2026
A crime scene tape in a past scene. Photo Canva
A US citizen has been fatally stabbed in broad daylight in Garissa County, cutting short what was meant to be a joyful homecoming from the United States.
The victim, 25, an American citizen of Somali origin, was killed in Bula Mzuri village under circumstances that have left his family and community completely devastated.
“He was stabbed in broad daylight, and that is what has left everyone in complete shock. We cannot understand how such a violent act could happen so openly in the middle of the day,” stated one resident.
His family says the suspect is a known gang member who has long terrorized Bula Mzuri village, and they are now demanding his immediate arrest.
Three days after the killing, the family says no action has been taken, despite them naming the suspect to authorities, a delay that has only deepened their frustration.
"It's really disappointing just to know for the last three days nothing has been done while we already fronted names of the suspect who is a criminal, a young criminal guy well known in those areas," a family member said.
Those who knew him paint a picture of a young man deeply attached to his family and community, someone who carried himself with quiet purpose and warmth, and calling for speedily investigations.
The family, backed by the wider community, is calling on authorities in Garissa County to act swiftly and ensure the suspect is brought to book without further delay.
"We are here demanding justice for him, the entire family is here, the entire community is here. He was a great kid, a role model for his siblings, and an amazing person," another family member said.
Relevant security agencies have not yet responded to the issue, nor has the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi since the incident was made public.
Garissa County has long been flagged by the National Crime Research Centre (NCRC) as a hotspot for organized youth gangs, with violent crime remaining a persistent challenge for residents and authorities alike.
Localized gangs such as Squad Chafu, formerly known as Hori Moyan, and the Gaza Family have carved out a dangerous presence in the area, primarily recruiting teenagers into their ranks.
Armed with machetes and knives, these gangs target residents and businesses through muggings, extortion, and robberies, with security commissioners and local leaders periodically conducting crackdowns to dismantle their networks.
