A family in Murang’a County was left in deep pain and humiliation after burial plans for their father collapsed at the last minute when a trusted family friend allegedly vanished with money meant for funeral arrangements.
The deceased, who died in a tragic road accident in December 2024, was first hit by a motorbike before being run over by a vehicle. Despite being rushed to hospital, doctors confirmed that he had sustained severe head and chest injuries and passed away on December 26.
His eldest daughter, Eunice Muthoni Kangethe, was tasked with leading the burial plans. Since she had never managed such responsibilities before, she sought help from her friend Ann. Ann introduced her to a man identified as Mwangi, who claimed he could provide a full funeral package—including a coffin, hearse, flowers, and a tent—for KSh 60,000.
Muthoni sent Mwangi KSh 20,000 in installments as a deposit. Later, Ann pressured her to pay more, saying Mwangi was unhappy with the small payments. Out of trust, she gave Ann KSh 30,000, leaving a balance of only KSh 10,000.
A day before the burial, Mwangi demanded an extra KSh 2,000 for transport costs. Hoping to ease the situation, Muthoni sent him KSh 5,000. But on the morning of the burial, Mwangi’s phone went off and he failed to show up. Ann also failed to assist, dismissing Muthoni’s concerns as hours passed.
The burial, scheduled for 8 a.m., was thrown into chaos as the family had no coffin or hearse. In desperation, Muthoni borrowed KSh 80,000 from her landlord. With the help of her uncle, she managed to secure a coffin and hire a hearse.
The body was eventually taken home, and the burial proceeded later in the afternoon.
The incident has left the family devastated, not only by their loss but also by the betrayal of trust during such a sensitive time. Community members have condemned the act and urged families to remain cautious when handling funeral arrangements.
