Homa Bay county referral hospital |Photo courtesy|
Seven hotel workers in Homa Bay Town are in police custody following an alleged torture and death of a fourth-year university student.
The body of the student who has been identified as Paul Sunday, was discovered under horrific circumstances at Dalawa Hotel and Restaurant.
Sunday, a student at Tom Mboya University, was found bound and injured on Saturday December 21, 2024, at the hotel’s counter.
Police reports indicate that his body was naked, tied with ropes and displayed signs of severe physical trauma.
According to a county enforcement officer who responded to a disturbance at the hotel, Sunday was tied to metal bars at the counter door, and the scene was described as chaotic.
Emergency responders rushed him to Homa Bay County Referral Hospital, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.
The Seven hotel employees who have been arrested in connection to the murder include, Jacob Okeyo Omollo, Baraka Odhiambo Jude, Monica Atieno, David Ochieng, Arnoder Atieno, Kennedy Ouma Otieno and Pamella Anyango Ombeto. The septet were immediately apprehended in connection with the death.
Local leaders, including Homa Bay County Commissioner Samuel Waweru, have condemned the incident and assured the public of their commitment to delivering justice.
“This is an unacceptable tragedy. We extend our heartfelt condolences to Paul Sunday’s family and pledge to pursue this matter with the seriousness it deserves,” Waweru stated during a press briefing.
The incident has reignited concerns over the safety of students in the region prompting advocacy groups to call for heightened scrutiny of establishments frequented by students and the implementation of policies aimed at preventing similar tragedies.
“This is not just a criminal matter but also a wake-up call for stronger regulations to protect our youth in public spaces,” said Stella Anyango, a youth rights activist based in Homa Bay.
Dalawa Hotel and Restaurant, now at the center of the investigation, has been temporarily shut down as authorities comb through the premises for evidence.
Local residents have expressed frustration over the lack of oversight in such establishments and the apparent failure to prevent violent incidents.
Paul Sunday’s family, devastated by the loss, has called for swift action.
“Our son’s life was taken in such a cruel and unjust way. We need justice, not just for Paul but to prevent this from happening to anyone else,” said Mr Joseph Onyango, father of the deceased.
Police have launched investigations on the matter as an autopsy to determine the exact course of death has been scheduled for tomorrow.
“We are determined to bring to light the circumstances surrounding this incident and hold the perpetrators accountable,” a senior police officer involved in the case said.
