This archive report was first published on 28 December 2019.
On December 28, 2019, a tragic incident occurred in Birunda village, Trans-Nzoia County, where a 16-year-old girl named Mercy Wakhungu took her own life.
Mercy, a standard six pupil at Birunda primary school, was punished by her brother Edward Wasike for allegedly spending a night at her boyfriend's home.
According to reports, Mercy had escaped from home and spent a night at her boyfriend's home before returning the next morning.
When questioned by her brother, Mercy declined to disclose where she had slept, which led to her being caned and being asked to lead him to her boyfriend's home.
However, on the way, Mercy escaped back home and locked herself in her bedroom, where she ultimately hanged herself.
Her sister Brigid found the door to the bedroom locked from inside and, upon peeping, saw the body of her sister dangling.
Trans-Nzoia Deputy County Commander Mr. Gerald Barasa confirmed the incident and stated that the body had been moved to Kitale County mortuary awaiting postmortem.
When journalists visited the home, Wasike was visibly disturbed and regretted his actions, stating, "I just disciplined her for her bad behavior. I'm disturbed that she decided to take her life."
