Seventeen-year-old Mercy Akinyi went missing on Sunday, May 12, after attending a local sporting tournament at Ratanga Market. Her decomposing body was discovered by residents of Ongenyore village on Saturday, May 18, with her head showing signs of being scavenged by vultures. The body was moved to Manyatta Mortuary as investigations continue to determine the cause of her suspected murder.

Police in Ndhiwa, Homa Bay County, have launched an investigation into the death of Mercy Akinyi. The police report states that Akinyi was last seen at Ratanga Market in Kwabwai Ward, where she attended a local sporting event.

According to TV47 Digital, residents of Ongenyore village found Akinyi’s decomposing body on May 18 and reported it to Kwabwai Chief George Olango. Olango confirmed the grim discovery, noting that the head showed signs of vultures feeding on it.

Homa Bay Police Commander Samson Kinne stated that the cause of the suspected murder is yet to be established. Kinne urged local authorities and residents to assist the police with any information that could lead to the arrest of the suspect. “We are still investigating to ensure the suspect is arrested and the family gets the justice it deserves. We ask residents to provide any information about the perpetrators,” Kinne said.

The body of the deceased was taken to Manyatta Mortuary for an autopsy, which will aid the investigation.