SEME, Kenya – Police in Seme, Kisumu County, are holding a 47-year-old woman accused of killing her 12-year-old son by setting him on fire after he allegedly stole Ksh150.
The suspect, identified as Jacinter Akinyi, is reported to have doused the boy with kerosene before igniting the flames at their home in Nyamgun area.
Neighbors who heard the boy’s screams rushed to the scene and managed to rescue him.
He was taken to Kombewa Sub-County Hospital, where doctors confirmed he had suffered burns covering more than 90% of his body.
Despite efforts to save his life, the minor succumbed to his injuries on Tuesday.
Police officers who visited the scene recovered a partially burnt shirt believed to have been worn by the boy during the incident.
Confirming the arrest, authorities said Akinyi is being held at Seme Police Station and will be arraigned in court.
The shocking case has stirred outrage in the community, with residents calling for justice for the victim.
