On Wednesday, October 16, around 3 PM, Peter Muhia, 27, and three friends decided to swim at a popular spot.
Witness Patrick Muchoki recounted the joyful moments that quickly turned into a nightmare when Muhia cried out for help.
Despite their attempts to rescue him, the strong water currents hindered their efforts. Muchoki recalled,
We were all enjoying ourselves… but suddenly, our friend Peter Muhia cried out for help. Despite our efforts, we couldn’t save him
Patrick Muchoki
As search efforts continue, Muhia’s family has gathered by the river, expressing deep concern about the dangers posed by the currents near Wanyiba Falls.
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His aunt, Joyce Wangui, has taken a leading role in the family’s plea for assistance in recovering Peter’s body. Wangui stated,
We are pleading for assistance to recover Peter’s body so we can give him a proper burial,
Joyce Wangui
His brother, Billy Muhia, shared their growing despair as they comb the area for any signs of their loved one. He said,
We’ve been searching near Wanyiba Falls… but with fading hope,
Billy Muhia
Another Tragedy: Maccain Okinyi
In a separate incident, young Maccain Okinyi, a Grade Five pupil at St Gabriel’s Primary School in Nyatike, tragically drowned in River Migori.
Reports indicate that Okinyi and another boy attempted to swim across the swollen river while fleeing from Nyatike forest.
Following traditional Luo customs, Okinyi’s family waited by the river for three days for his body to resurface.
Local divers eventually found Okinyi’s body downstream. Residents have called for a police investigation into this tragic incident, emphasizing the need for safety measures around local waterways.
Community Response and Safety Concerns
These incidents have raised significant concerns about water safety in Kenya. Families and community members are urging authorities to take action to prevent future tragedies.
The dangers of swimming in unfamiliar waters cannot be overstated, particularly during periods of heavy rainfall when currents can become treacherous.
