The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has announced the death of a youth who had been missing for three days.
In a statement issued on Monday, January 6, 2025, DCI revealed that John Muchiri Muthoni, 27, was found dead by the roadside in the Milimani Kawaida area of Banana, Kiambaa, Kiambu County.
Muthoni had been reported missing on Friday, January 3, 2025.
Investigations uncovered that Muthoni, along with several accomplices, had climbed the perimeter wall of a nearby rental property intending to steal. Witnesses reported hearing footsteps on the iron sheet roof and seeing attempts to tamper with the Wi-Fi network receiver.
Residents, alarmed by the commotion, raised the alarm, prompting the suspects to flee. However, Muthoni was apprehended by a crowd and subjected to mob justice about 20 meters from the scene.
Further inquiries revealed that the rental property’s residents had suffered multiple break-ins and thefts in the past.
Clarification on Abduction Claims
Initially, Muthoni’s disappearance was classified as an abduction. However, DCI later clarified the circumstances surrounding his death.
The body of the deceased has been taken to Kihara Level IV Hospital mortuary, where an autopsy is expected to be conducted.
“While the case was initially reported as an abduction, subsequent investigations have provided clarity,” DCI stated.
The DCI reaffirmed its commitment to conducting thorough and impartial investigations to ensure justice.
Four Abducted Youths Released
The announcement follows the release of four abducted youths: Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Bernard Kavuli, and Rony Kiplangat.
On Monday, January 6, 2025, Mwangi and Muteti reunited with their families, while Kavuli and Kiplangat contacted their families after being located in Kitale and Machakos County, respectively.
Despite this, concerns persist as the whereabouts of cartoonist Gideon Kibet (known as Kibet Bull) and Steve Kavingo remain unknown.
Anti-abduction protests have continued to gain momentum, with a heavy police presence reported in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) on Monday.
In one instance, police dispersed a group of mothers who had gathered on Kimathi Street to protest the rising cases of abductions.
In Mombasa, three individuals were reportedly arrested outside the Technical University of Kenya (TUK) during a demonstration.
Authorities have urged citizens to maintain peace as investigations into the rising abduction cases continue.
