Fear of human trafficking ring as pastor arrested with human limb

When Kakamega residents set ablaze a vehicle suspected to be used by child traffickers. [Benjamin Sakwa, Standard]

Fears of human trafficking have rocked the Western region as locals were left reeling after a pastor was arrested with human body parts in his Toyota Premio at Masikhu market on Tuesday afternoon.

Police in Bungoma are holding the self-proclaimed preacher, who has a church in Ndivisi in Webuye West constituency.

The bizarre incident unfolded when a car wash attendant opened the boot of Simiyu’s car only to discover a box containing a partially burnt human leg.

The cleaner promptly alerted his manager who swiftly called the police. Eyewitnesses said the discovery sent shockwaves through the usually peaceful market.

The cleaner, who gave his name only as Samuel, described his horror upon finding the gruesome remains hidden in the vehicle.

“This is a shocking incident coming from a man of God. We leave the matter to the police to handle and investigate further,” he said.

Bungoma Police Commander Francis Kooli told The Standard that they are investigating the matter.

In a statement, the Director of Criminal Investigation (DCI) from Webuye East said they are holding the suspect for investigation.

“Police in Webuye are holding for investigation a self-proclaimed clergyman in whose care were found human parts stashed in a carton after he took it to a car wash located at Amazing petrol station in Bungoma Masikhu market,” read the statement on their page.

The DCI said that the man washing the car was making his final touches inside the boot when he noticed a protruding human leg.

“The young man abandoned his duty, ready to retire early until the petrol station manager took a gaze at the creepy box,” police said.

“She (the manager) immediately informed the police at Webuye station, who arrived in time before the car owner could drive off.”

They also said that the body parts have been taken to the Webuye County Hospital morgue for further analysis and preservation.

Authorities have also urged anyone with relevant information about the case to come forward as investigations continue.

This comes as three people were lynched by locals at Lunza village, Butere constituency, Kakamega County, last Friday over an alleged human trafficking ring.

The incident left six other suspects nursing serious injuries and recuperating at Life Care Hospital in Bungoma County.

Butere residents alleged that the nine people wanted to kidnap a Grade Eight pupil in the early morning while going to school.

“We suspect these people are targeting school-going children to get kidneys for their business. We are urging the authorities to ensure our people are protected, and those behind human trafficking are arrested and held accountable,” said Nivah Asei.

In Busia County, the devolved unit is grappling with a troubling surge in child neglect and trafficking cases, especially for children found on the streets.

Children Services Director Esther Wasige said reports of child neglect have risen in the last one year.