Nairobi, when 78-year-old Catherine Waceke Kimotho was discovered dead in a septic tank at her homestead in the Njathaini area on Sunday, November 10. Police believe her death was a result of foul play, and a 21-year-old man, who worked as a casual laborer at the deceased’s home, has been arrested along with two other suspects.
The gruesome discovery of Kimotho’s body shocked the local community. The elderly woman, who had been living alone, was reported missing by family members on Sunday morning. Following the report, a search was launched by local authorities, leading them to her home. There, the body was found wrapped in a blanket and submerged in a septic tank near the cowshed where Kimotho had kept livestock. Preliminary investigations revealed that she had suffered head injuries, likely inflicted by a blunt object, suggesting a violent attack.
At the time of her disappearance, the suspect, a shamba boy who had been employed at the woman’s homestead for about a month, was also missing. This raised immediate suspicion, particularly after the elderly woman’s body was found in such a secluded and eerie location on the property.
Acting on intelligence, detectives from Nairobi’s regional headquarters tracked the 21-year-old suspect to a hideout in the Valley area of Kinoo, Kiambu County. The man had allegedly sought refuge with his cousin in the area to evade capture. Upon arrest, the suspect was taken in for questioning along with his cousin. They were both transported to Kasarani Police Station.
Further investigation led authorities to Githurai 44, where detectives discovered a crucial lead: the victim’s mobile phone. The phone had been sold to a local repair shop, where it was traced and recovered. This discovery led to the arrest of a third suspect, who is believed to have been involved in the sale of the deceased’s belongings.
With all three suspects now in custody, police are working to uncover the motive behind the murder. Preliminary reports suggest a possible financial dispute between the suspect and the elderly woman, as unconfirmed sources claim that the 21-year-old shamba boy had a disagreement with Kimotho over unpaid wages. It is believed that the suspect had worked for the woman for a month, and tensions may have escalated when Kimotho allegedly failed to pay him the agreed-upon salary.
The murder has sent shockwaves through the Kasarani community, with many expressing disbelief that such an act could occur in the quiet, rural neighborhood. Local residents have described Kimotho as a kind and respected figure, and her brutal death has left them in mourning.
As detectives continue to piece together the details of the crime, the motive behind the murder remains unclear. Investigators are examining all possible angles, including any potential connections between the suspects and the victim. The three arrested individuals are set to be arraigned in court on Wednesday, where they will face charges related to the heinous crime.
This tragic incident serves as a stark reminder of the dangers that can arise from seemingly ordinary work relationships. The death of Catherine Waceke Kimotho highlights the importance of ensuring justice is served and that the circumstances surrounding such senseless acts of violence are thoroughly examined.
