Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested the prime suspect in the brutal murder of 18-year-old Faith Kemunto, a young woman who was preparing to join Machakos University before her disappearance and tragic death in July.
According to investigators, Faith had travelled home from Nairobi on July 27 in readiness for her university admission. On the fateful day, she left home to meet her boyfriend, identified as Gideon Agisa Makori, but she never returned.
Her disappearance prompted her family to report the matter at Nyamuri Police Station. “We searched for her everywhere. As a family, we were restless and heartbroken because she never used to stay out without telling us,” her mother tearfully told reporters outside the court.
Following intensive investigations, detectives tracked down Gideon in Huruma estate, Nairobi, where he had been hiding. He was arrested while in possession of Faith’s mobile phone. Alongside him, police also arrested Vinic Kemunto Menyori, who is accused of harboring him.
“The arrest of the suspects marks a major breakthrough in the case, but we are still piecing together evidence to ensure that justice is served,” said Nyamira County DCI boss.
In a grim turn of events, a body believed to be that of Faith was recovered from a shallow grave by the roadside in Maosi village, Nyamaiya, Nyamira County. The remains were exhumed following an order issued by the Nyamira Law Courts.
On Friday, the two suspects were arraigned before Nyamira Principal Magistrate Bernard Ochieng, where prosecutors requested more time. “The complexity of this case requires thorough forensic analysis. We are therefore seeking 21 days to complete investigations,” the prosecutor told the court.
Magistrate Ochieng granted the request, ruling that the two be held in custody. “The prosecution has demonstrated sufficient grounds. The suspects will remain in police custody until September 29 when the matter will be mentioned again,” he said.
Faith’s tragic death has sparked outrage and grief in Nyamira. Neighbors and relatives described her as a bright young woman full of promise. “She was the hope of this family. We only pray that those responsible for cutting short her life face the law,” a close uncle said
