A violent mob attack has left five members of a single family dead and six homes reduced to ashes in Metembe village, Masimba Ward, Kisii County, in a brutal act of suspected revenge.

The tragic incident unfolded late Thursday night after residents accused the family of being behind the murder of a middle-aged man whose body was discovered a month ago. Among those killed were the family’s father and mother, while two other relatives narrowly escaped the deadly assault.

According to local authorities, the attackers not only took lives but also set ablaze six houses believed to belong to the targeted family, escalating the violence into a full-scale arson attack.

South Masaba Deputy County Commissioner Jane Manene confirmed the killings and property destruction, adding that officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have launched an official investigation.

“The matter is under thorough probe. We urge residents to remain calm and allow the law to take its course,” said Manene.

The bodies of the deceased were taken to Kisii Teaching and Referral Hospital mortuary. Authorities are working to piece together the events leading to the fatal incident, even as the community grapples with the shock and devastation.