Deadly incidents on Del Monte's 40 sq km pineapple farm in Kenya are sparking alarm, despite the company's decision to outsource security to G4S in March 2024. Since then, three men have lost their lives in separate incidents, with allegations of involvement by G4S guards who patrol the vast estate. The move was intended to address human rights concerns and improve safety, but instead, it seems that some individuals are now more at risk.
Del Monte appointed G4S to manage its security operations after previous allegations of brutal assaults and killings on its land. Wayne Cooke, then acting managing director of Del Monte Kenya, had stated that the company's top priority was the safety and security of both personnel and the surrounding community. A new manager was also brought in to tackle the company's "human rights challenges." However, the situation appears to have worsened for some.
Stephen Marubu Kibandi, 34, was shot in the chest by a police officer working with G4S guards in August 2025, reportedly while he was surrendering. His brother, Haron Kame Kibandi, 27, died in April 2026 after allegedly being struck by stones thrown by G4S guards and falling from a motorbike. In another incident, Michael Muiruri, 31, was killed when knocked off a motorbike by a G4S pickup truck.
The Kenyan police have strengthened their collaboration with G4S this year, setting up a "critical infrastructure protection unit" to enhance security at the farm. This has sparked fears among campaigners that the involvement of police could make it harder to prosecute instances where lethal force is used. G4S has denied any wrongdoing in the incidents.
The Del Monte farm, located in Murang’a county, is Kenya's largest exporter of produce, generating over $100 million annually. Its products are supplied to various UK supermarkets, making this a significant concern for British consumers and policymakers alike. Pineapple theft has been an ongoing issue for decades in the region, where the average monthly salary is approximately £280. A Kenyan senator has now called for an independent investigation into the escalating violence.