A security guard contracted by Del Monte Kenya has been accused of fatally injuring a local vegetable vendor, reigniting concerns about violence linked to multinational agribusiness operations in the country.

Between 8am and 9am on 8 August, 31-year-old Michael Muiruri was knocked down in Gatwekera, Murang’a, by a Toyota Hilux driven by a G4S guard. The guard suspected him of stealing pineapples, according to witnesses. Muiruri had earlier sold vegetables at Thika’s Makongeni market and was returning home on a motorcycle driven by his friend, 24-year-old Brian Kuria.

Kuria survived the collision and rushed Muiruri to a local clinic, where he was given first aid before being referred to Thika Level 5 hospital. He died hours later from multiple injuries.

The incident was reported at Ngati police station under OB number 12/08/08/2025. The vehicle and damaged motorcycle were impounded. Family members allege that the guard pursued them as they went to report the killing, nearly running them over a second time.

Rights groups say the killing is part of a wider pattern of violence around Del Monte’s Thika plantation. In December 2023, four men were found dead after allegedly being beaten by company guards and dumped in the Chania River. A 2024 human rights assessment documented killings, assaults and intimidation against locals, some accused without evidence of trespassing or theft.

Del Monte outsourced security to G4S in March 2024 after firing more than 200 in-house guards. Community leaders say abuses have continued. G4S has previously faced allegations of torture and sexual violence in unrelated disputes in Kwale.

The Kenya Human Rights Commission and the Ndula Resource Center are demanding the arrest of the guard, compensation for Muiruri’s family, and international sanctions against Del Monte until it meets human rights obligations.