Kirinyaga: 64-year-old woman found murdered at her home, shamba boy on the run

A 64-year-old woman was on Friday night found murdered at her homestead in Kombo-ini village, Kirinyaga County, with her domestic worker – who is now the prime suspect – missing.

The body of the deceased – since identified as Rose Muthoni Kariuki - was discovered by her neighbour Chrispine Kaara Kunguru, who then informed authorities immediately.

Emotions run high as detectives arrived at the scene of the incident at around 8pm to collect the body, with the deceased’s daughter Caroline Wangui fainting due to shock in the process.

Ms. Wangui, a Secretary at the Kirinyaga County Assembly, expressed grief over the circumstances leading to her mother’s murder, pointing an accusing finger at the shamba boy – a Ugandan natonal.

According to Kangai Ward MCA Njiru Nambu, Ms. Kariuki had been living in the area for over five years after buying the piece of land, and that she had been staying only with the worker since her children are employed.

Preliminary investigations conducted by the police showed that the deceased had visible injuries, and that there was blood oozing from her mouth.

Mwea West sub-county Police Commander Mbatian Kantai said they have since launched a probe into the incident.

“The shamba boy is nowhere to be found, we’re looking for him as we continue with investigations. We have moved the body to Kibugi funeral home in Kutus pending autopsy," Kantai said.