KERUGOYA, Kenya — Detectives in Kirinyaga East have arrested three suspects linked to the gruesome killing of Jackline Waruguru Kathuri, whose mutilated body was discovered on November 22 in Ninga-ini village.
Police said the discovery followed a distress call to Kiamutugu Police Station reporting a body lying in a thicket. Responding officers found Waruguru’s remains bearing severe burn injuries, a missing right upper arm and breast, and visible head wounds.
The body was moved to Kerugoya County Referral Hospital for preservation and autopsy.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), a rapid manhunt was launched soon after the discovery.
Forensic intelligence led officers to the primary suspect, Collins Muchira Ngege, who, upon interrogation, allegedly revealed the identities of two accomplices: John Brian Kimotho Kamau and Stephen Muchiri Karani. Both were subsequently arrested.
Preliminary investigations indicate that Waruguru left home on November 16 and never returned. Detectives believe she was gang-raped, assaulted, and dragged to the scene where she was abandoned and later found dead.
The three suspects remain in custody as investigators prepare to present them in court.
Authorities have condemned the killing as a disturbing act of gender-based violence, with officers vowing to pursue justice for the victim and her family.
