NAIROBI, Kenya – The management of Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) has opened the lid on the brutal murder of a patient identified as Gilbert Kinyua Muthoni, while under its care.
In a detailed statement, William Sigilai, on behalf of the Chief Executive Officer (CEO) extended the medical facility’s condolences to Kinyua’s family, friends and loved ones during this difficult time.
“We are committed to providing the family with all the necessary support and to support ongoing investigations surrounding the incident,” reads a statement from the acting CEO.
Kinyua was referred to KNH from St. Mary’s Hospital, Lang’ata on December 11, 2024.
KNH states that Kinyua was admitted to Ward 7B, which specialises in the management of patients with nervous system disorders, otherwise known as neurological conditions.
“We wish to clarify that this ward is not designated for mental health conditions as has been erroneously reported in some quarters. Upon admission, it was noted that Kinyua had pressure ulcers resulting from prolonged mobility,” the statement further reads.
After a comprehensive evaluation by the KNH specialists, he was diagnosed with a rare neurological disorder that causes muscle weakness.
“His condition was particularly severe, affecting all his limbs. He therefore required total nursing care, including tube feeding. Despite the severity of his condition, his status has remained stable under our care,” said Sigilai.
According to KNH, on Thursday, February 6, 2025, Kinyua’s condition was observed to be stable, and the day proceeded as normal.
“The night shift team took over without noting any undue concerns. The nursing staff attended to him at 9 pm, midnight and 3 am and no abnormalities were reported during these routine checks,” Sigilai explained.
However, on Friday morning approximately 6 am during the nurses’ ward rounds, KNH states that Kinyua was found with his face covered by a blood-stained sheet.
“Upon uncovering him, the nurse discovered that he was motionless, with a cut wound on his neck. The nurse immediately alerted his colleagues, security personnel, the attending doctor and the hospital’s management,” the hospital said.
Against this backdrop, the scene was immediately cordoned off as a scene of crime and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations was notified.
KNH reiterated that the DCI responded promptly and has taken full charge of the investigation.
“The next of kin were promptly contacted and requested to come to the hospital. Our team of psychologists and counsellors were mobilised to provide support to the family and break the sad news to them,” reads the two-page statement.
Recognising the profound grief and trauma experienced by the family, KNH has established a 24-hour helpline to offer ongoing psychological support.
“A second counseling session was held yesterday with a larger group of family members. KNH is cooperating fully with the law enforcement agencies and is committed not to prejudice the ongoing investigation. The post-mortem examination of the deceased’s body will be conducted as directed by the DCI.”
KNH further said that it has an elaborate security system in place, including CCTV cameras in common areas.
“Additionally, we have officers from the National Police Service stationed within the hospital, and we are in close proximity to a police post,” said the hospital.
In light of this incident, Sigilai indicated that the hospital has heightened and enhanced security measures to ensure the safety of more than 1,800 patients, staff and all visitors.
“The KNH management is deeply saddened by this tragic event and remains committed to transparency and accountability throughout the investigation process,” the CEO said.
The hospital’s management has gone to assure the public that it is taking all necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future.
“We urge the public to allow the DCI to conduct it’s investigations without interference and to refrain from speculation that may cause further distress to family,” Sigilai’s statement further reads.
