Lucy Wanjiru, mother of Fred Mureithi (1991-2021) and Victor Mwangi (1996-2021), described burning personal effects of her sons as an unsuccessful attempt to alleviate grief following their August 7, 2021, deaths. The brothers, along with cousins Mike George and Nicholas Musa, were beaten and speared after being mistaken for cattle rustlers. Their bodies were found two days later with severe trauma, including head wounds and fractured bones, according to an autopsy report.
Wanjiru, who left Kenya in 2018 amid financial struggles and a failed marriage, returned from the UK after learning of her sons’ deaths. Victor celebrated his 25th birthday before the attack, with Fred joining the group later that day. Neighbors confirmed seeing Fred alive on the day of the murders.
Police have arrested one suspect in the case, but Wanjiru and family members allege a broader conspiracy. A report cited 500 men in Kitengela taking an oath to withhold names of perpetrators, with elders threatening curses against those who cooperate with investigators. Kajiado county police commander Muthuri Mwongera noted the victims’ motorcycles lacked license plates, fueling suspicions of livestock theft.
Wanjiru disputed the cattle rustling narrative, emphasizing her sons’ legitimate businesses. Fred, an animator and graphic designer born in 1991, ran a shop in Syokimau, while Victor, a DJ and motorcycle mechanic born in 1996, modified vehicles for sale. Both had plans to open a joint venture named Lusons, a tribute to their mother’s legacy.
Despite efforts to suppress memories—burning Fred’s artwork and Victor’s belongings—Wanjiru insisted only justice could heal her. "You cannot kill the memories of my sons by burning this house," she said. She last spoke to Fred days before his death, unaware he had skipped his brother’s birthday party due to an unspecified commitment.
