Joseph Ng’ang’a Muhatia: Missing, Forgotten, or Covered Up?
On December 18, 2024, the fire that consumed Modern Furniture Pacific in Ruiru was more than just a business tragedy—it became the backdrop of a chilling mystery. Joseph Ng’ang’a Muhatia, an employee at the store, disappeared without a trace that same day. Since then, conflicting narratives, missing evidence, and eerie silence from authorities have only deepened the uncertainty.
A Trail of Conflicting Stories
In the days following Joseph’s disappearance, two narratives emerged from close associates of Modern Furniture Pacific’s owner, Gibson Murage.
- Tajiri Mtoto claimed Joseph had fled to Uganda, but provided no proof—no bus ticket, no border crossing record, no phone call to family. Just words.
- Mbote Njogu, in a now-deleted video, revealed that police found a carcass inside the burned-out premises and took samples. However, there was never any confirmation whether the remains belonged to a dog or a human.
What Happened to the “Carcass”?
This is where the case takes an even more sinister turn.
- What were the test results? If the police took samples, where is the forensic report?
- Why was there no public disclosure? In an era where forensic evidence plays a crucial role in solving crimes, why was this potential clue treated with secrecy?
- How was the carcass disposed of? Was it burned, buried, or discarded? And under whose authorization?
- Did authorities follow standard procedure for disputed remains?
Standard Procedure for Disputed Remains
Ordinarily, when unidentified remains are found in a crime scene or fire, protocol dictates:
- DNA testing is conducted to confirm identity.
- If there is uncertainty, the remains are preserved until the investigation is complete.
- Families of missing persons are notified and given access to the investigation.
- Disposal happens only after conclusive forensic analysis.
None of these steps appear to have been followed in Joseph’s case. Why?
Cover-up, Accident, or Something Darker?
The silence from authorities raises three unsettling possibilities:
- A Cover-up: Was Joseph’s disappearance inconvenient to someone powerful? Was the fire a distraction to erase evidence?
- An Accident: Did Joseph get trapped in the fire, and was the carcass actually his remains—disposed of to avoid liability?
- Something More Sinister: In recent years, Kenya has seen disturbing cases linked to cult activities. Could this be another case where unexplained disappearances are swept under the rug?
Who Will Give Joseph’s Family Closure?
Joseph’s family is left in agonizing uncertainty. If he is alive, why has he not reached out? If he is not, why is the truth being hidden?
This is not just about one man’s disappearance—it is about the integrity of our justice system. Who is responsible for ensuring that missing Kenyans are found? Who will guarantee that the truth is not buried under bureaucracy and silence?
Until Joseph’s fate is known, one question will not go away: Who is benefiting from his disappearance?
