Police in Kakamega are investigating the tragic death of Dr. Jairus Omuteche, a senior lecturer at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (MMUST), whose body was found floating in the Jordan River after being missing for three days.
Dr. Omuteche, 48, was reported missing on Saturday. His lifeless body was discovered 15 kilometers from his home in Vihiga County, far from the area he was last seen.
Final Moments and Discovery
According to his wife, Dr. Omuteche had left home to visit his farm near the river to collect sticks for building a cowshed. When he failed to return, his family and colleagues launched a frantic search.
On Tuesday, search efforts culminated in the grim discovery of his body near the confluence of the Jordan River and River Yala.
Western Regional Commissioner Irungu Macharia confirmed the incident, describing it as tragic and pledging a thorough investigation.
“We are working closely with local authorities to uncover the facts and ensure the investigation is transparent,” Macharia stated.
Suspicion of Foul Play
While preliminary findings suggest drowning as the cause of death, suspicions of foul play persist. Some speculate Dr. Omuteche may have been murdered elsewhere, with his body later dumped in the river. Authorities, however, are yet to confirm these allegations.
A Celebrated Academic Career
Dr. Omuteche was a respected scholar in Black Diasporic Literature, Popular Culture, and Postcolonial Studies, with over 15 years of teaching and research experience.
As the chairperson of the Department of Language and Literature Education, he was deeply invested in mentoring postgraduate students and offering career guidance to young learners in Vihiga County.
His death has sent shockwaves through the university community and beyond, as colleagues, students, and family members mourn the loss of an accomplished educator and mentor.
Next Steps
The body has been moved to Itando Mission Hospital, where a postmortem examination will be conducted to determine the exact cause of death.
Authorities are appealing to anyone with information to assist in the ongoing investigation.
The tragic loss of Dr. Omuteche highlights the growing concern over unexplained deaths and disappearances in the region.
His family, colleagues, and students are left grappling with the untimely loss of a figure who significantly impacted their lives.
