Tharaka Nithi: A man has died in Tharaka Nithi County following an alleged assault by his family members over a dispute involving a Sh 50 payment.

According to eyewitnesses, the deceased, Lloyd Muigai confronted a relative who had harvested bananas from his farm without permission.

Muigai requested Sh 50 as compensation for the bananas, but his relatives reacted violently. They reportedly tied him up and took turns physically assaulting him.

One resident, who heard Muigai’s cries of pain, attempted to intervene but was threatened and warned to stay away. Fearing for his own safety, the resident retreated and did not assist.

The area chief, accompanied by police officers, confirmed that Muigai succumbed to the injuries inflicted during the assault.

The body has been transported to Chukua Level Six Hospital’s mortuary, where it awaits a post-mortem to determine the exact cause of death.

The six family members accused of the assault are currently in custody at Chukua Police Station as investigations continue.