Machakos man, Mumo Nthiwa, charged with possession of witchcraft items.
A 55-year-old man, Mumo Nthiwa, has been arraigned in a Machakos court after police recovered bizarre items linked to witchcraft, including human hair, nails, skin, charms, and photographs of residents.
Police said Nthiwa’s arrest was tied to investigations into the killing of Easther Katongo in Kathiani, Machakos County.
According to County Police Commander Patrick Singi, officers had earlier arrested Erick Makau in Mbee, Kathiani, after he was spotted performing rituals near a water tank. On questioning, Makau confessed he had been instructed to poison the water with half a kilo of tobacco and named Nthiwa as the supplier.
“We were investigating the murder of Easther Katongo when we came across a man engaged in witchcraft. That led us to Nthiwa, who was later found with charms, disturbing articles, and photos of locals,” said Singi.
During a raid at Nthiwa’s premises, police uncovered a room filled with witchcraft paraphernalia. Items recovered included: Human remains (hair, skin, and nails), Charms and talismans, Photographs of residents allegedly used in rituals
In a twist, Nthiwa admitted he was also a preacher, and police said he used superstition and fear to extort money from members of the public.
Nthiwa was charged under Section 5 of the Witchcraft Act No. 23, Cap 67, which bars possession of items linked to sorcery, witchcraft, or practices meant to cause fear, annoyance, or harm.
The court ordered that all items seized from his shrine be destroyed.
Meanwhile, Makau was released after police cleared him of wrongdoing.
Commander Singi urged Kenyans to remain alert against conmen exploiting spirituality:
“We caution members of the public to avoid falling prey to individuals who use witchcraft to extort money.”
Investigations are ongoing to determine whether Nthiwa had a direct role in the Kathiani murder case.
