Police have arrested two suspects, James Njiru Murimi, 42, and Peter Mbogo Wanjerina, 35, in connection with the brutal murder of 72-year-old Margaret Wandauma Maina in Kegua village, Kerugoya East, Kirinyaga County.
The elderly woman was last seen on December 13, 2025, at Muthigiini Shopping Centre and was found dead the following day.
The shocking discovery came after a tip-off from a concerned member of the public who reported seeing an unidentified female body in the area.
Responding immediately, law enforcement officers arrived at the scene to find the deceased half-naked, with visible injuries to her forehead.
Personal effects recovered included a duplicate national ID card, an Equity Bank ATM card, and an Itel mobile phone. The body was subsequently taken to Kibugi Funeral Home for preservation and autopsy.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Wandauma was last seen at Muthigiini Shopping Centre on December 13, 2025, where she visited the Rome bar at around 5:40 pm.
She reportedly left the premises and never returned home. Concerned relatives alerted authorities when she failed to report back, prompting an urgent search operation.
Detectives launched a manhunt following the discovery of the body, relying on forensic leads to track down potential suspects.
Their efforts culminated in the arrest of 42-year-old James Njiru Murimi and his 35-year-old accomplice, Peter Mbogo Wanjerina. The suspects are currently in police custody, undergoing processing ahead of their forthcoming arraignment.
Investigators have stated that the arrests mark a significant breakthrough in the case, which had sparked alarm within the local community due to the brutality of the attack and the victim’s age.
Law enforcement officials have called for calm while they continue to gather evidence to build a robust case for prosecution.
Authorities have also reminded members of the public to remain vigilant and report any suspicious activity.
In this regard, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has provided a toll-free number, 0800 722 203, and a WhatsApp contact, 0709 570 000, to allow citizens to submit information anonymously.
The community has expressed shock over the incident, describing Wandauma as a long-standing resident known for her quiet nature and active engagement in local affairs. Local leaders have condemned the murder and urged law enforcement to ensure swift justice.
Forensic experts are currently analysing the recovered items and the scene to reconstruct the events leading to the killing.
Investigators are expected to provide updates as the case progresses, with authorities emphasising that the suspects are considered innocent until proven guilty in a court of law.
This case reaffirms ongoing concerns about the safety of elderly citizens in rural areas, where remoteness can sometimes delay emergency response and investigations.
Police have reiterated the importance of community cooperation in preventing such crimes and ensuring that perpetrators are swiftly brought to justice.
As the legal process unfolds, residents of Kirinyaga East remain on edge, hoping that justice will be served and that measures will be implemented to prevent similar incidents.
Meanwhile, police continue to urge anyone with information to come forward to assist in the investigation and protect vulnerable members of the community.
The arrest of Murimi and Wanjerina is viewed as a crucial step towards restoring public confidence in law enforcement’s ability to respond effectively to violent crimes, particularly those targeting the elderly.
