Couple Found Dead on Embu Miraa Farm in Mysterious Circumstances
Bodies of a couple hired to care for a miraa farm were found in Embu, sparking investigations as police probe the cause of death.
By John Mtongoi Newsroom
August 19, 2026
2 min read
Tragedy struck at a miraa farm in Njikace Village, Embu County, when the bodies of a couple employed to tend the farm were discovered on Wednesday, August 19, 2026.
Eric and Esther, both originally from Kirinyaga County, had been hired by farm owner Godfrey Mwaniki Mbiti to manage the miraa plantation near the Kirinyaga-Embu border. The grim discovery was made by another worker tasked with spraying the crop, who immediately alerted the owner.
According to Mbiti, the woman showed signs of strangulation, while the man was found hanging from a mango tree. The bodies were located in separate spots within the farm, raising questions about the circumstances that led to their deaths.
News of the incident quickly reached Kiumbu Village in Kirinyaga, where the couple resided. Residents expressed shock and confusion, noting that despite having no children, the pair were close and well-regarded in the community.
Local leaders, including village elder Stephen Mugo and Kiarukungu Location Chief Henry Kariuki, indicated that initial speculation suggests a possible altercation that escalated inside the residence before moving outdoors. Chief Kariuki confirmed that the investigation falls under the jurisdiction of Mbeere South police due to the location of the bodies.
The deceased were in their 30s, and their sudden deaths have left the community in mourning. The bodies have since been taken to Embu Level Five Hospital mortuary as police continue their investigations.
This incident coincided with another tragic event in Kirinyaga County, where a 60-year-old woman was found murdered in Kamugunda Village. Police are currently searching for a suspect in that case.
