A solemn wave of grief swept through Mombasa’s Marikiti Market as hundreds of residents, family members, and civil society activists gathered for a candlelight vigil at the exact spot where 23-year-old student John Joshua Kalaghe tragically lost his life to mob justice.
The late Kalaghe, 24, from Taita Taveta County and a beauty therapy student at NITA College in Mombasa succumbed to severe injuries after the unruly mob pounced on him claiming he was part of a syndicate involved in what can now be described as a “genitalia hoax” that rocked Kwale and part of Mombasa.
The evening was marked by emotional calls for the immediate arrest of the perpetrators and the prosecution of police officers who allegedly watched the attack unfold without intervention.
Speaking during the emotional vigil, the deceased’s sister, Damaris Mwako, expressed her deep shock and devastation.
“John was our last-born and our hope. I educated him using loans, which I am now left to pay alone. I do not know why they killed my brother,” she said.
Her sentiments were echoed by Marungu Ward MCA Steven Nzayi Mkala, Kalaghe’s first cousin, who condemned the heinous act and demanded accountability from the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).
“Allegations were flying around wildly, but nothing was verified. We watched video clips of him pleading for mercy from the police, but they failed to protect him. We demand that IPOA investigate these officers since we have retrieved CCTV footage from the market,” said Mkala.
Representing the business community, Marikiti Traders Association Chairman, Ali Sheikh, extended his condolences to the family, blaming the attack on organized, idle criminal groups within the CBD.
“This incident was fueled by an out-of-proportion rumor staged by local goons. Kalaghe was an innocent customer. We have given the footage to the state, and we want these criminals weeded out of our market permanently,” said Sheikh.
Mombasa County Commissioner (CC), Mohamed Nur, a fortnight ago, addressed journalists at his Uhuru na Kazi offices and dismissed the hoax warning residents to desist from spreading misinformation that would endanger lives adding that stern action will be taken against perpetrators.
By Otieno Kevin
