Detectives in Meru County have apprehended a prime suspect in the murder of 65-year-old Evelyne Mukiri Mbaabu, who was fatally attacked at her home in Kithoka, Imenti East, on August 7. According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the suspect, identified as Solomon Kathurima Kairemia, was arrested on September 21 following weeks of forensic analysis and intelligence-led investigations. Mbaabu was preparing supper with her 13-year-old grandson when an unknown man entered the compound and went to the kitchen, where he asked for drinking water.
The 13-year-old boy heard his grandmother scream for help and rushed to the kitchen, only to find her lying in a pool of blood. The attacker then turned on the boy and struck him on the hand with a panga before fleeing. Mbaabu was rushed to Grace Park Hospital, where she was pronounced dead on arrival. The boy's testimony provided crucial evidence for the investigation. The DCI said Kairemia abandoned his house after the killing and began spending nights hiding in nearby thickets, just a few metres from his residence.
Detectives eventually traced Kairemia and arrested him on September 21. During the arrest, officers recovered a blood-stained panga believed to have been used in the fatal attack. The weapon was secured as an exhibit for further forensic examination. A police identification parade was later conducted, during which Kairemia was positively identified as the man behind the attack, according to investigators.
The suspect was subsequently presented before the Meru Law Courts, where detectives obtained a 14-day custodial order to allow them to complete their investigations. The DCI said investigations would continue to establish the motive and circumstances surrounding Mbaabu's murder. The arrest was a result of collaborative efforts between detectives from the CCIO's Office and DCI Imenti North.
The DCI released a statement confirming the arrest and providing details of the investigation. According to the statement, Kairemia was apprehended following weeks of forensic analysis and intelligence-led investigations. The DCI commended the detectives for their tireless efforts in solving the case.
The murder of Mbaabu had sparked widespread concern in the community, with many calling for swift action to be taken to bring the perpetrator to justice. The arrest of Kairemia has brought some relief to the family and the community. The case is ongoing, with further investigations and court proceedings expected.
The DCI has assured the public that they will continue to work tirelessly to solve crime cases and bring perpetrators to justice. The arrest of Kairemia demonstrates the commitment of the Kenyan police to ensuring the safety and security of citizens. The case highlights the importance of community cooperation and intelligence-led policing in solving crime.
Key points
- The suspect, Solomon Kathurima Kairemia, was arrested on September 21 in connection with the murder of 65-year-old Evelyne Mukiri Mbaabu.
- The murder took place on August 7 at Mbaabu's home in Kithoka, Imenti East, Meru County.
- A blood-stained panga was recovered during the arrest, which is believed to have been used in the fatal attack.
