This archive report was first published on 26 November 2019.
Published on November 26, 2019, a government official has warned thrill-seekers that they risk arrest if they swim at Sagana Falls in Muruguru, Nyeri County, following the drowning of a university student.
The warning comes after a fourth-year actuarial science student, Ezra Njenga, drowned while swimming near the falls with friends last Thursday.
According to witnesses, Njenga was overwhelmed by the rapids and despite efforts by his friends to rescue him, he could not be saved.
Seven days have passed since the search for his body began at River Sagana, but heavy rains have hampered the operation.
Central Regional Commissioner Wilfred Nyagwanga visited the scene and ordered that the area be cordoned off and the road closed until the water level subsides.
He also ordered the arrest of thrill-seekers who swim in the area and other danger zones mapped out across the region, stating that anyone caught swimming in these areas will be deemed to be attempting suicide, which is illegal.
"They can come for excursions but watch from a safe distance as this is a dangerous zone. If you are caught trying to get into the water, one can only assume you are attempting suicide so the law will take its course," Nyagwanga said.
The waterfall has, over the years, attracted hundreds of domestic tourists but continues to claim lives, with two people drowning while swimming there in 2018.
