Meru activist and blogger ‘Sniper’ found dead after mysterious disappearance
Political activist and renowned blogger Daniel Muthiani, widely known as “Sniper,” has been found dead after mysteriously disappearing on Monday, December 4, 2023.
Abogeta West Member of County Assembly, Denis Kiogora, confirmed the disheartening news to Nairobi News, expressing condolences and emphasising the need for justice.
“He was found dead on Saturday, December 16. Let his soul rest in power. May his killers never know peace,” said Mr Kiogora, who also serves as the Chief Whip in the Meru County Assembly.
The blogger’s sudden death has sparked an online debate, with many expressing grief over the loss of a fearless individual who consistently spoke his mind.
He was known for his bold stance on various social and political issues.
The circumstances surrounding his disappearance and subsequent demise remain unclear.
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According to reports, Sniper went missing after receiving a call from an unidentified person who expressed concern about the nature of his social media posts. Following the call, he left his residence in Kabuitu, Igembe Central, Meru County, and had not been heard from since.
Nairobi News obtained a letter written by Mike Mutembei, alias Macarena, on behalf of the family.
In the letter addressed to the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss, Mohammed Amin, Mutembei revealed that the caller who contacted Sniper was known and had suggested a meeting before introducing him to a prominent leader in the county.
“The person informed him that they should meet before they go ahead and meet one of the top leaders in the county,” said Mr Mutembei who is also the chairperson of the People Living with Disabilities in Meru.
The letter also disclosed that Sniper informed his wife about the meeting with the caller. However, concerns escalated when the family started receiving calls demanding money for the blogger’s release.
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The family reported the matter to Maua Police Station, and it was recorded under Occurrence Book (OB) number 38/04/12/2023. Meru County Police Commander, Cunningham Suiyanka, assured the public that investigations were underway following the disappearance report.
“The County Criminal Investigation Officer and a team of officers are currently on the ground, and once we get information, we will update you on the progress,” said Suiyanka during a media briefing.
The untimely death of Daniel Muthiani has sent shockwaves through the community, prompting demands for a thorough investigation into the circumstances leading to his demise.