MERU: In a deeply disturbing turn of events, a man is being held by police for allegedly killing his one-year-old son to fulfill a condition set by his new girlfriend.

The local administrator reported the tragic incident, identifying the suspect as 30-year-old John Gitau.

The heinous act took place in Igembe South sub-county, Meru County, where Gitau allegedly killed his son and dumped the body in a river.

According to reports, Gitau’s new girlfriend had given him an ultimatum: she would only marry him if he had no children from his previous relationship.

Desperate to comply, Gitau visited his ex-wife, from whom he had separated, and requested to spend time with their infant son.

Given that he was the biological father, his ex-wife saw no reason to deny his request.

“He went to his ex-wife and asked for the child. Because he is the biological father, he was not denied access. He went with the child, and the following day, when the mother wanted the baby back, they could not be traced,” explained Athi location chief Gerund Kalunge.

The following day, the infant was missing, prompting a frantic search. Tragically, the child’s lifeless body was discovered near River Githii.

Investigations revealed that the baby had been suffocated to death using a rope, a detail that has shocked and horrified the local community.

The incident has sparked outrage and disbelief, with many struggling to comprehend the lengths to which Gitau allegedly went to please his new girlfriend. Community members have expressed their grief and anger, calling for justice for the innocent child whose life was brutally cut short.

“This is an unimaginable tragedy. How could anyone harm their own child? It’s heart-breaking,” lamented a neighbor.

In the wake of this tragedy, the community mourns the loss of a young life and hopes for healing and justice for the grieving mother and family.