Police have launched investigations after two family members died, and three others hospitalized in critical condition after a food poisoning incident at a home in Bondo, Siaya County. 

In a statement on Thursday, February 20, 2025, police reported that the incident occurred at Kanyamelo village, Kanyadet sub location, South West Gem location in Gem sub County. 

“It was reported by one Susan Akoth Muga, the area chief South West Gem location that some family members were feared dead in her area under unclear circumstances.  

“Officers from Akala police post visited the scene, at the homestead of one Ernest Ojigo Olum, at Kanyameno village, Kanyadet Sub Location, South West Gem location in Gem Sub County and established that some family members had suffered food poisoning attack and that two family members had died while three other members rushed to Bondo hospital with abdominal pains,” read part of the police report.

Police reported that during the incident, Ernest Ojigo Olum (father) aged 74 years and John Otieno Ojigo (son) aged 5 years died after vomiting severely.

At the same time Deborah Adhiambo Ojigo (daughter) aged 19 years, Deborah Auma (niece) aged 19 years and Val Adhiambo Ojigo (daughter) aged 2 years were rushed to Bondo Sub County hospital for medication. 

The family members allegedly began complaining of abdominal pain while having dinner of ugali and cowpeas leaves/ vegetables. 

Police officers visited the home of the victims and took samples of the suspected poisoned food for further analysis.

Meanwhile, two bodies were removed to Bondo Sub-County hospital mortuary awaiting post mortem.