A 42-year-old man from Arimi Village in Elburgon Ward, Molo Sub-County, died early on Saturday morning after setting his own house on fire.

The death had all the hallmarks of suicide borne of hopelessness.

The deceased, identified as Isack Mathaiya Muchiri, reportedly visited the area chief’s office while intoxicated after being accused of stealing chicken in the neighbourhood. Residents said he later returned home still under the influence and ignited his house.

Neighbours rushed to help but were unable to save him as the fire had already engulfed the structure.

“We rushed to the scene only to find the fire spreading rapidly. Despite our efforts, after extinguishing it, we discovered his lifeless body, burned beyond recognition,” an eyewitness said.

Neighbours rushed to help but were unable to save him find the fire spreading rapidly. Despite our efforts, after extinguishing it, we discovered his lifeless body burned beyond recognition,” an eyewitness said.

The incident drew a large crowd, with locals linking the tragedy to alcohol abuse and consumption of illicit brews.

Elburgon Ward MCA Njuguna Mwaura called for stronger action against illegal alcohol vendors, citing serious social problems caused by widespread consumption.

“We must regulate drinking joints in Molo Constituency. We are losing members of community daily to drug abuse and crime-related activities,” MCA Mwaura said. “I am calling on security agencies to act decisively to curb alcohol abuse in Elburgon.”

Residents also expressed concern over rising insecurity, noting that some alcohol addicts resort to stealing household items and livestock to fund their habits.

The body was taken to Elburgon Sub-County Hospital Mortuary as police launched investigations into the incident.

• A Tell Media / KNA report / By Absalom Namwalo