Body of missing Siaya boy found in bush, genitals chopped off

Police in Bondo on Sunday recovered the body of a seven-year-old boy who had been missing for two days.

The body of Geoffrey Otieno was found dumped in a bush at Pap-Komenya, less than a kilometre from Usenge town.

Usenge assistant chief Manase Osuri said police were informed of the body’s whereabouts after children who had noticed foul smell coming from the bush found it.

“The body was moved to Bondo sub-county hospital mortuary after the family identified it,” said Mr Osuri.

The administrator, who termed the incident shocking, said police were investigating the boy’s killing.

“From what we have gathered, the boy could have been murdered elsewhere and his body dumped in the bush. We also suspect it could be a case of ritual killing, as the boy’s genitals have been chopped off,” said Osuri.

He urged parents to monitor movements of their children to prevent such incidences.

Very careful

“This shows there are criminals among us. We must be very careful, especially those who send their children to school without escorting them,” said Osuri.

Otieno, a Standard One pupil, was playing with other children when he allegedly went missing.

His mother, Molly Ouma, said they searched for him in the entire estate but did not find him.

“I became suspicious when my son did not return home by 7pm. After searching for him for more than four hours, I decided to report his disappearance to the police,” said Ms Ouma.

Otieno’s killing rekindled memories of suspected ritual killings.

Five years ago, a 20-year-old man was killed and his mutilated body found dumped in a bush at Sanda village, sparking protests.

Bondo OCPD Harriet Kinya said they had launched investigations into the matter. The officer said they would not rest until they apprehend those behind Otieno’s killing.