A Sunday evening football match in Gituamba village, Waguthu location, Kiambu County ended in tragedy after a heated argument between two cousins turned deadly, leaving one man dead and the community reeling.
According to police, 35-year-old Stephen Mathia Njoroge was stabbed in the stomach by his cousin, identified only as Mbugua, following an altercation during a televised English Premier League match between Manchester United and Chelsea.
Argument Over Match Turns Violent
The incident happened around 6:00 p.m. as residents gathered to watch the match. Eyewitnesses said the two men, who had been drinking illicit brew at a local joint earlier in the day, began arguing as the game progressed. The dispute escalated into a physical confrontation that ended with Mathia being fatally stabbed.
Family members described the tragedy as incomprehensible, noting that Mathia was known for his calm and friendly nature.
“He was jovial, peaceful, and got along with everyone. It’s unbelievable that this could happen between cousins,” said one relative at the family home on Monday.
Mathia was rushed to a nearby hospital but succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.
Suspect in Custody, Murder Weapon Missing
Kiambu County police confirmed that the suspect had been arrested and is currently being held at Kiambu Police Station. Investigators are still searching for the murder weapon, believed to have been discarded as the suspect fled the scene after the stabbing.
Authorities said statements have been taken from several witnesses, and the suspect will be arraigned in court once investigations are complete.
A Day of Erratic Behaviour
Relatives told police that Mbugua had been behaving erratically since morning, even slashing his mother’s banana plants in a fit of rage before heading to the local drinking den. Community elders said the incident reflects rising levels of tension and violence linked to the consumption of illicit brews in the area.
“This tragedy could have been avoided if there was more control over illegal alcohol. People are losing their lives over petty disputes fuelled by intoxication,” said a local resident during a village meeting on Monday.
Community Shock and Condemnation
News of the stabbing spread quickly through Gituamba village, drawing condemnation from residents and local leaders. Many have called for tighter regulation of illicit alcohol and more community education on peaceful conflict resolution.
Area leaders urged residents to avoid excessive drinking during social gatherings, especially where heated discussions — such as football matches — can easily spark tempers.
“Football should unite us, not divide us. We must learn to manage our emotions and resolve disagreements peacefully,” said a local youth leader.
Police Appeal for Calm and Caution
Kiambu police have appealed to the public to remain calm as investigations continue. They have also used the tragedy to highlight the importance of resolving disputes amicably.
“Excessive alcohol consumption and unresolved tensions are a dangerous mix. We urge communities to seek non-violent ways of addressing disagreements,” a police spokesperson said.
Rising Violence Linked to Alcohol
Incidents of violence connected to illicit brews have been on the rise in parts of Kiambu and neighbouring counties. Community activists say the lack of regulated entertainment venues and the availability of cheap illegal alcohol often create volatile environments during high-stakes football matches, political discussions, or other social events.
Experts warn that such environments are particularly dangerous in rural settings where security personnel may not be immediately available to quell disputes.
Family Begins Burial Preparations
As investigators comb the area for the missing weapon, Mathia’s family has begun burial preparations. Relatives said the funeral would be held later this week, pending the completion of postmortem examinations and police procedures.
Friends and neighbours have flocked to the family’s home to offer condolences, describing Mathia as a hardworking man who loved football and was active in community activities.
“We have lost a brother, a son, and a friend. We pray for strength as we go through this,” a family spokesperson said.
A Call for Peaceful Conflict Resolution
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers of unchecked anger and substance abuse. Local leaders, religious organisations, and law enforcement are now calling for increased efforts to educate communities on non-violent conflict resolution, as well as a crackdown on illicit alcohol suppliers in the region.
As Kiambu residents come to terms with the killing, authorities hope that swift justice and community dialogue will help prevent similar tragedies in the future.
Key Facts
- 35-year-old Stephen Mathia Njoroge fatally stabbed by cousin during EPL match viewing in Gituamba, Waguthu, Kiambu County.
- Suspect arrested; murder weapon still missing.
- Family says Mathia was peaceful; suspect had exhibited erratic behaviour earlier in the day.
- Community leaders link the tragedy to illicit brews and call for tighter regulation.
- Police urge residents to resolve disputes peacefully and avoid excessive drinking at social gatherings.