Police detain househelp over death of woman, 78, in Bungoma

Detectives in Bungoma County are investigating the murder of a 78-year-old woman whose body was discovered in her home under suspicious circumstances.

The victim, identified as Mary Nekesa Muricho, was found lying on her bed in Mayanja Vitunguu on Saturday, August 23.

Police who visited the scene said her body bore visible bruises on her legs and hands, as well as a cut above the eye. Bloodstained clothes were also recovered inside the house.

Investigators believe Muricho may have been attacked outside her home before her body was moved to the bed. Signs of a struggle were evident both inside and outside the house.

A house help who lived with the elderly woman was arrested and is being held as the prime suspect. The body was transferred to the mortuary awaiting postmortem examination.

Elsewhere in Meru County, police have launched a manhunt after a man succumbed to injuries sustained during an assault.

The deceased, identified as Elias Murerwa, had been admitted to hospital after a confrontation with a known assailant.

He died on August 21 while undergoing treatment. Police say the suspect is still at large, and the case is being treated as murder.

Meanwhile, tension gripped Gatimu village in Ngecha, Kiambu County, after a 23-year-old man went on a machete rampage, injuring three people.

Witnesses said the man, armed with the weapon, attacked villagers indiscriminately, leaving his victims with deep cuts on their hands and legs.

Residents attempted to lynch him before police intervened. The suspect was eventually subdued and arrested while still brandishing the machete and threatening anyone who came near him. Police said the victims were admitted to the hospital and are in stable condition.

The motive behind the attack remains unclear. Authorities said the suspect will undergo a psychiatric evaluation before being charged in court.