Scene of the incident/SCREENGRAB
The National Police Service has launched investigations into a suspected murder incident in the Itangi Police Station area of Mwea East Sub-County, Kirinyaga County, after the body of a pregnant woman was found by the roadside.
The body of Catherine Njeru was discovered early Friday morning along the Piai-Itangi Murram Road. The NPS said preliminary observations showed visible injuries to her head and hip.
The circumstances surrounding her death are now being investigated by police officers from the county and regional criminal investigations teams.
Kirinyaga County Directorate of Criminal Investigations officers, led by the County Criminal Investigations Officer, joined local Sub-County police investigators at the scene and began inquiries into the cause of death.
The Inspector General of the National Police Service has been briefed on the incident and directed the Director of Criminal Investigations to expedite the inquiry and establish the facts.
In a statement issued on Friday, NPS Director of Corporate Communication and spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said the service was committed to establishing what happened.
“The IG-NPS has been kept briefed on this heinous crime and has directed the Director of Criminal Investigations to expedite the investigation and establish the facts,” Nyaga said.
The development comes amid concerns among residents of Murinduko villages, who blocked the road leading to South Ngariama following Njeru’s death.
The blockade has disrupted movement in the area as residents seek answers over the circumstances surrounding her death.
The residents are seeking answers over allegations that Njeru was thrown out of a police vehicle.
The circumstances surrounding that allegation have not been established by the NPS statement, which said investigations were under way.
The police service urged residents to remain calm and avoid speculation as investigators work to establish the facts.
The NPS also appealed to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to report to the nearest police station or law enforcement officer.
Information can also be shared through the toll-free numbers 999 and 911.
The NPS condoled with Njeru’s family, relatives and friends, saying it was committed to “expeditious and conclusive investigations”.
The service said further progress reports on the matter would be provided as the investigation continues.