Recent reports have surfaced concerning a series of tragic incidents at Del Monte’s expansive pineapple farm in Kenya, where three men have lost their lives over the past year, allegedly in confrontations involving guards from the British security firm G4S. This alarming trend has ignited outrage among families and local politicians, prompting calls for a thorough investigation into the security practices at the farm.
Escalating Violence Raises Alarm
Del Monte, a multinational food corporation, has faced intense scrutiny following the deaths of Michael Muiruri, Stephen Marubu Kibandi, and Haron Kame Kibandi. The firm transitioned to hiring G4S for security services after previous instances of violence were brought to light, including allegations of severe human rights abuses. The farm, which spans approximately 40 square kilometres, is a significant exporter of Kenyan produce, generating over $100 million annually.
Witness accounts suggest that the fatalities are linked to violent encounters with G4S operatives, who were brought in to enhance security in the wake of earlier incidents. In August 2025, Stephen Marubu Kibandi was shot in the chest by a police officer collaborating with G4S guards. Eyewitnesses reported that he had raised his hands in surrender at the time of the shooting. His death is currently under investigation by the Independent Police Oversight Authority (IPOA).
The Kibandi family has been devastated by the loss of their sons. Harrison Kibandi Marubu, their father, expressed his anguish: “I have no one to inherit me now. Must all the suspected thieves be killed? They don’t deserve to be condemned to the grave.”
A Pattern of Tragedy
The circumstances surrounding the deaths of the Kibandi brothers are harrowing. In April 2026, Haron Kame Kibandi succumbed to injuries sustained from stones allegedly thrown by G4S guards, which caused him to fall from a motorbike. Accounts from medical professionals indicated that he had suffered a traumatic head injury, while his friend, who was riding the bike, confirmed the attack.
Michael Muiruri’s death in August 2025 involved a G4S vehicle colliding with him while he was a passenger on a motorcycle. The driver has since faced charges of dangerous driving. However, G4S maintains that this incident was merely an unfortunate traffic accident.
Politicians have echoed the sentiment of the local community, urging for independent inquiries into these incidents. Senator Joe Nyutu stated, “Repeated incidents over a relatively short period point to systemic issues that require examination, including security protocols and adherence to human rights standards.”
Community Outcry and Calls for Accountability
The deeply disturbing nature of these events has catalysed community protests, with demonstrators demanding justice and accountability from both G4S and Del Monte. Local MP Mary Wamaua Waithira