DCI seeks 21-day detention of taxi driver in Wandeto murder probe, cites last call and location data

In a miscellaneous application filed by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the investigators said the suspect, Josiah Njeru Njiru, is being investigated for murder following the attack on Wandeto in Mwiki, Kasarani.

According to a supporting affidavit sworn by CI Raphael Wanjohi of the Homicide Investigations Bureau, Wandeto was allegedly lured out of her residence on the night of May 15, 2026 at around 9.00pm before being attacked and doused with a flammable liquid, sustaining severe burns.

The affidavit states that the victim was later rescued and taken to Kenyatta National Hospital where she was admitted in critical condition, before succumbing to her injuries on May 18, 2026, with investigators indicating she had burns covering more than 70 per cent of her body.

Detectives told the court that investigations show the suspect was the last person to contact the deceased and claimed he shared his location near her residence on the same night, despite not living in the area.

Investigators said they had also recovered items during the arrest and subsequent search — including national identity cards, a mobile phone, clothes and documents — which they said need to be subjected to forensic examination.

The DCI said they require more time to retrieve and analyse CCTV footage, trace and record statements from witnesses, recover additional exhibits, conduct an identification parade, obtain DNA samples for comparison, and subject the suspect to a mental examination.

The affidavit further states that due to the “political direction” the matter has taken, the suspect’s safety cannot be guaranteed if he is not in custody, and that he is considered a flight risk.

The investigators asked the court to allow the suspect to be held at Kilimani Police Station or any other police station as investigations continue.