Vihiga Father Arrested After Baby Allegedly Dumped in River—But One Detail Is Raising Doubts

Shock, anger, and confusion have gripped residents of Mbale in Vihiga County following a disturbing incident involving a two-month-old baby whose whereabouts remain unknown.

Police have arrested a man identified as Francis Inzava, who is accused of dumping his infant into River Ehedwe near the Broadpark forest area. He is currently being held at Mbale Police Station as investigations continue.

The Disturbing Allegations

According to reports, the suspect had separated from the child's mother but recently requested to see the baby. It is said that he went to a rented house in the Shalom area of Mbale, where he took the infant from the mother—what followed has now left an entire community shaken.

The father allegedly led police to the riverbank, claiming that is where he left the baby. However, despite hours of searching, no body was recovered. The only item found was a small pair of socks lying near the edge of the river—a heartbreaking and chilling discovery that has only deepened the mystery.

A Mother's Doubts

But even as the investigation unfolds, doubts are emerging. The child's mother has expressed strong suspicion that the father could be misleading authorities. She believes the baby might still be alive and possibly hidden with relatives, suggesting that the socks could have been planted to deceive investigators.

Police have not ruled out this possibility. Officers have warned that if the suspect is found to be giving false information, he could face additional charges—along with anyone who may be involved in hiding the child.

Search Challenges in Vihiga

Meanwhile, the search area itself presents its own challenges. The stretch near River Ehedwe is surrounded by thick bushes, reeds, and dense vegetation, making it extremely difficult for search teams to comb through every corner. Locals have also pointed out the presence of an abandoned gold mine pit nearby—now filled with water—raising further fears about what could be hidden within.

Others have expressed concern about predators in the area, saying the environment poses serious risks, especially if the baby was left exposed.

Community Outrage Across Western Kenya

Tension among residents has continued to rise. Some locals, overwhelmed by emotion and anger, demanded that the suspect be handed over to them, insisting they could force him to reveal the truth. However, police firmly refused, maintaining control of the situation and urging the public to allow investigations to proceed lawfully.

The case has drawn attention from across Vihiga County, with residents from Chavakali, Luanda, Sabatia, and Hamisi following developments closely. Community leaders from Majengo, Gisambai, and Emuhaya have called for calm while demanding thorough investigations and justice for the innocent child. Even in distant towns like Mudete, Kilingili, and Tambua, locals are discussing the tragedy and praying for a miracle.

"As night falls over Mbale, one painful question remains unanswered: Where is the baby? For now, a family waits… a community hopes… and a mystery continues to unfold."

💬 Engagement Questions:

Do you believe the father is telling the truth, or could the baby still be alive somewhere?
What should police do next to uncover the truth in this case?