mzeiya
Elder Lister
The Mukuru Community Justice Centre (@mukuru_cjc) uncovered a horrifying scene on July 12, 2024, when a dead body was spotted at the Kware dumpsite, located just meters from a local police station. Upon inspection, the center discovered what appeared to be multiple bodies dumped in the area.
Police Inaction and Suspicions
The proximity of the dumping site to the police station raised troubling questions. Observers suggested that either the police themselves were involved in the disposal or were knowingly allowing others to commit these crimes. The Mukuru Community Justice Centre sounded the alarm, drawing public attention and the notice of the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (@ODPP_KE).Despite the grim discoveries, local authorities and police were reportedly more concerned with suppressing information than addressing the situation.
Volunteer Efforts Amid Dangerous Conditions
The Mukuru Community Justice Centre mobilized volunteers to retrieve the bodies, which were found wrapped in similar materials—ropes, gunny bags, and paper. Volunteers worked without proper protective gear, navigating a hazardous dumpsite filled with raw sewage, medical, and industrial waste. Meanwhile, forensic teams from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (@DCI_Kenya) reportedly stood by, leaving the dangerous task to untrained locals.Protests and Police Brutality
The retrieval of nine bodies on the first day triggered community protests demanding justice. In response, police reportedly brutalized residents, injuring at least 15 people. Critics highlighted this as emblematic of systemic failures, arguing that citizens were more likely to face harm than receive protection from law enforcement.Delayed and Ineffective Government Response
Over two weeks after the first discovery, the DCI asked volunteers to halt retrieval efforts to coordinate with Nairobi County’s disaster management team—a process marked by delays and finger-pointing between agencies. A Senate inquiry had previously revealed the county disaster team’s lack of qualifications, further eroding public trust.During this time, the Mukuru Community Justice Centre relied on donations amounting to Ksh. 147,576 to fund their work, underscoring the inadequacy of government support. Even when Nairobi County officials promised assistance, they failed to deliver essential equipment.
Arrests and Allegations of Torture
On July 15, police arrested Collins Jumaisi Khalusa, who allegedly confessed to killing 42 women and dumping their bodies in Kware. However, Khalusa later recanted his confession, claiming it was extracted under torture, including strangulation and sexual assault. He disappeared from police custody on August 20, raising further concerns about systemic corruption and incompetence.The Role of Civil Society
National and international human rights organizations initially amplified awareness but contributed little on the ground. Most failed to provide necessary resources or equipment for volunteers, instead focusing on oversight and media engagements. Many have since disappeared from Mukuru, leaving the grassroots volunteers traumatized and unsupported.A Call for Justice
The Kware murders exposed deep failures in governance, policing, and the civil society sector. The victims were failed in life and death, with little hope of justice. The grassroots efforts of Mukuru Community Justice Centre highlighted both the resilience of local communities and the systemic neglect they face.This tragedy stands as a stark reminder of the need for accountability, transparency, and support for those working tirelessly to seek justice where systems of power have failed.