Worker killed as goons invade Meru tycoon's home, destroy Sh50m property

Moses Lichoro, a renowned businessman based at Kabuitu in Igembe Central, is counting massive losses after one of his workers was on Wednesday morning attacked and killed by goons.

Josphat Kirimi 23, was hacked to death by a mob that Lichoro described as a criminal gang sponsored by a politician only because he is a staunch supporter of Meru Governor Kawira Mwangaza.

Lichoro has also lost property worth Sh50 million as his New Sh6.5 million Land Cruiser Pick-up,  mansion, hardware, and utensils shop were torched.

“The gang calls itself Seven Brothers. They invaded my home yesterday at 4 PM but we managed to repulse them. The gang reinforced itself and attacked at dawn,” he said.

Lichoro linked his woes to Igembe Central MP Dan Kiili claiming he instructed police not to respond to his situation.

MP Kiili however rubbished the claims saying he was sympathetic to what transpired to Lichoro.

He added that as a business person both within and outside the Country, he can’t wish fellow businessmen such a tragedy.

“I have businesses within the Country, Tanzania, and Somali and outside the region. I sympathize with what happened to him and condemn the incident. You as well know, that no one is above the law or can hold the police hostage," he said.

"The police are independent and are reliable in providing security to every Kenyan, so one can’t control them. They do not receive orders under any political inclinations."

Kiili distanced himself from the allegations linking him to the attack saying he was not involved in anything related to it.

Gideon Kimathi, Mwangaza’s economic adviser lamented that the organized militia group is targeting those supporting  Governor Mwangaza.

“I urge NCIC and DCI to look at the criminals who think they are above the law. We also ask CS Kindiki, who we know loves Meru to crack the whip and ensure Igembe DCI do their job without political influences," he said.

Kimathi demanded an immediate overhaul of the police for peace and reconciliation.

“It doesn't need rocket science to know who is focused on destroying the County,” he said.

Former Kangeta MCA Romano Mwito condemned the Kabuitu incident saying if Lichoro didn’t escape, the gang had instructions to arm him.

“Why attack those who are supporting Governor Mwangaza? Lichoro was even stoned this morning. They cut his 40-acre Miraa plantation and killed a worker,” Mwito said.

Nominated MCA Fridah Naitole said leaders should stop creating tribal crises and pleaded with CS Kindiki to intervene and ensure all perpetrators are arrested and charged for justice to prevail.