Woman dies in arson attack in Bungoma in apparent case of mistaken identity - The arsonists were targeting a Nyumba Kumi elder reporting crime in the area (PHOTOs)

Tuesday, March 17, 2026 - A disturbing incident in Bungoma has sparked outrage after a woman identified as Cynthia Maloba died following a suspected arson attack.

According to social media posts by Cop Shakur, the attacker locked the house from the outside, poured petrol, and set it on fire while Cynthia was inside with her 8-month-old baby.

Cynthia reportedly sustained severe burns and died while trying to save her child.

The infant, who is said to have been rescued, was admitted to the ICU with serious burn injuries.

The reports further allege that the attackers were targeting a Nyumba Kumi elder who had been reporting crime in the area.

The family had recently moved into the house, unaware that they may have been mistaken for the intended target.

Eyewitnesses claim that they saw a prime suspect identified as Omumbu at the scene.

Omumbu was arrested and later released, with reports emerging that he is being protected by the police.

The Kenyan DAILY POST