By Faith Anene, Luanda
A three-day search has come to a tragic end with the discovery of Dr. Jairus Omuteche’s body floating in the Jordan River, 15 kilometers from his home in Vihiga County.
Dr. Omuteche, a Senior lecturer of Literature at Masinde Muliro University of Science and Technology (Mmust), was reported missing on Saturday after he left for his farm near the Jordan River and failed to return home.
The 48-year-old academician, who was also the Chairperson of the Department of Language and Literature Education, had gone to collect sticks for his cowshed on the fateful day.
“This is a very tragic incident, and we are committed to uncovering the facts behind his death. His family, colleagues, and the entire community deserve answers, and we will ensure that the investigation is comprehensive and transparent,”~ Irungu macharia -RC Western
His sudden disappearance raised alarm among his colleagues and family members, prompting an extensive search. Authorities found his body near an intersection where the Jordan River meets River Yala, a location far from where he had last been seen.
Western Regional Commissioner Irungu Macharia confirmed the incident and said investigations are underway to determine the cause of Dr. Omuteche’s death.
“We have launched a thorough investigation to establish the circumstances that led to the death of Dr. Omuteche. We are working closely with local authorities to ensure that the truth comes to light,” said Mr Macharia in a phone interview.
He went on: “This is a very tragic incident, and we are committed to uncovering the facts behind his death. His family, colleagues, and the entire community deserve answers, and we will ensure that the investigation is comprehensive and transparent,”
While the initial investigation points to the possibility of drowning, some reports suggest foul play. It is speculated that Dr. Omuteche could have been murdered elsewhere and his body dumped into the river, though authorities have not yet verified these claims.
Dr. Omuteche was well-respected in the academic community, with over 15 years of experience in teaching and research.
His work focused on Black Diasporic Literature, Popular Culture, Postcolonial Literature, Folklore, and Literary Theory.
He also mentored postgraduate students and was deeply involved in academic mentorship and career counseling for children in local primary and secondary schools in Vihiga County.
As his body was transported to the Itando Mission Hospital morgue for a postmortem examination, the university community and his family continue to mourn the loss of a dedicated educator and mentor.
Authorities have called for anyone with information that may shed light on the circumstances surrounding his death to come forward.
Dr. Omuteche’s untimely death has left a void in both the academic and local communities, and many are hoping that the ongoing investigation will bring clarity to the tragic event.
