A family in Kilifi is demanding a thorough investigation into the death of 15-year-old Crispus Baraka Kitsao, who was found dead inside a pit latrine at Bamba Police Station, where he was being held over an alleged assault case.

Baraka, a Form Two student at Godoma Boys High School, had been arrested on Friday, April 18, following a complaint filed by the parents of his 16-year-old girlfriend. Police claim Baraka assaulted the girl, stabbing her in the nose and breaking her arm, but the family disputes the allegation, saying the couple had a consensual relationship and the complaint stemmed from the parents’ disapproval.

According to Ganze Sub-County Police Commander Paul Yator, the teenager allegedly took his own life on Saturday morning using his T-shirt after being assigned to clean the latrine. However, questions have been raised after it emerged that he was left unaccompanied, despite standard procedure requiring supervision of detainees.

A fellow inmate reportedly discovered Baraka’s body after noticing the latrine door was locked from the inside. He found the teen hanging from the ventilation bars using his shirt.

Baraka’s grandmother, Gladicy Riziki, dismissed claims that he was 18, presenting his birth certificate showing he was born on July 21, 2009. She also alleged that police beat the boy during his arrest and that the family had received threats from officers prior to his detention.

“We want an independent autopsy and investigation. We suspect foul play,” Riziki said. “If he had been properly supervised, this tragedy could have been avoided.”

Police claim the deceased had a history of suicide attempts and had been previously charged with defilement—a charge dropped when it was revealed both parties were minors.

Baraka’s body has been moved to Kilifi Referral Hospital pending an autopsy, as investigations continue.