A breakthrough has emerged in the investigation into the fatal shooting of mental health researcher Dr Victoria Nthunya Mutiso after the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed that two persons of interest are now in custody as detectives widen efforts to establish who was behind the killing.
The update, issued on Thursday, says homicide detectives supported by specialised investigative and forensic teams have made progress since taking over the case following the shooting in Nairobi's Upper Hill area on July 29.
According to the DCI, investigators have followed several leads through witness interviews, forensic examinations and targeted operations as they work to identify everyone involved in the fatal attack.
As part of those operations, detectives searched premises linked to persons of interest and recovered exhibits that investigators believe could help advance the case.
"The operations resulted in the recovery of exhibits considered relevant to the investigation, which are currently undergoing detailed forensic analysis," the DCI said.
The agency also confirmed that two persons of interest are being held as detectives continue to investigate the events that led to Dr Mutiso's death.
"The DCI further confirms that two persons of interest are in lawful custody and are undergoing interrogation as part of ongoing investigations," the statement said.
However, the DCI said it would not release the identities of those in custody at this stage, saying doing so could affect the integrity of the ongoing investigation.
The latest development follows the launch of investigations immediately after Dr Mutiso was shot dead on Wednesday morning in Upper Hill. Following the incident, homicide detectives and Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) officers were dispatched to secure the scene, gather forensic evidence and record statements from witnesses.
Preliminary findings established that Dr Mutiso had requested an Uber ride shortly before she sustained fatal gunshot injuries, although investigators say the circumstances surrounding the shooting are still being examined.
"Preliminary investigations indicate that the deceased had requested an Uber service for transport when she sustained fatal gunshot injuries under circumstances that remain the subject of active investigations," the DCI had said.
The agency said detectives are continuing to examine the recovered exhibits while pursuing more investigative leads aimed at establishing exactly what happened and identifying everyone responsible.
"The DCI remains firmly committed to conducting a thorough, impartial and expeditious investigation to establish the full circumstances surrounding this incident and ensure that any person found culpable is brought to justice in accordance with the law," the statement said.
The DCI has also appealed to members of the public with any information that could assist the investigation to report to the nearest police station or anonymously through the #FichuaKwaDCI platform by calling the toll-free number 0800 722 203 or via WhatsApp on 0709 570 000. The agency said further updates will be issued when it is appropriate to do so without affecting ongoing operations.