Detectives have arrested the main suspect in the murder of Seth Nyakio Njeri, more than a year after she was found dead in Thika town.
Nyakio, 23, was the daughter of Kirinyaga nominated MCA Lucy Njeri. She was a graduate of Zetech University.
Her body was discovered on October 14, 2024, inside a house in Blessings Building, Biafra Estate, Thika. The discovery shocked the area and triggered a nationwide manhunt.
Police said the suspect, Ken Kimanthi Gichunuku, alias “Sultan,” was Nyakio’s former boyfriend. His photo and details had been circulated as detectives searched for him.
Investigations revealed that Seth Nyakio was strangled. An autopsy later confirmed that she died from strangulation and had injuries suggesting she had been assaulted before her death. Bruises were found on her neck, cheeks, thighs, and other parts of her body, indicating she may have struggled with her attacker.
After the murder, the suspect went into hiding.
On Saturday, detectives finally traced him to Busia town near the Kenya–Uganda border. Police said he had been working at a cereal distribution shop while trying to live unnoticed.
The arrest was carried out by officers from the homicide unit, working together with detectives from Kisii South and Busia.
Police credited the breakthrough to the use of technology, forensic leads, and information from members of the public.
The suspect is currently in custody and is expected to be transferred to Thika for processing and possible arraignment.
By Vivian K.