•Waeni's body was found on Sunday found stuffed in a paper bag off Thika Road, Nairobi.
•Waeni's family has asked for privacy as they continue to mourn the death of their daughter.
Image: handout
The family of the slain Roysambu woman has broken the silence over the death of their loved one.
In a statement seen by the Star, Rita Waeni Muendo family said that the life of their daughter was taken from them too soon.
"It is with profound sorrow and broken hearts that we, the Mutea family, address the media today. Our beautiful Waeni, a radiant soul in our lives, was tragically taken from us far too soon," they said.
At only 20 years of age, Waeni was set for her last year at the University at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).
Ransom demands
Revealing details of what transpired before Waeni 's death, the family said she left her aunt's residence in Syokimau to meet with a friend on Saturday.
However, at around 5 am on Sunday, the father received a message, from Waeni's phone number, demanding a ransom of Sh500,000 within 24 hours for her release.
The family proceeded and reported the matter to the police and DCI, and investigations began.
Two more messages were sent to Waeni's family demanding the ransom.
According to the statement, the family did not get further details about the ransom or an opportunity to explore this route.
Waeni's body was found on Sunday found stuffed in a paper bag off Thika Road, Nairobi.
According to the police, she was stabbed and chopped to death in an apartment along TRM Drive, Thika Road.
Her head was chopped off and has still not been recovered by the police.
Even after Waeni was murdered, the family reveals that more demands were made.
With the news of the Roysambu murder dominating the media, the family proceeded to search for their daughter.
"After a painful and futile search, working with the DCI, we positively identified our child, as the girl tragically murdered at the wake of Sunday morning at/or around Thika Road Mall, January 14, "the statement reads further.
Waeni's family believes that their daughter was lured by her killer, who also tried to extort money from her family, even after killing her.
Following her death, Waeni's parents, siblings, and the entire family are yet to come to terms with this tragic event.
"We are broken and our lives have been shattered, at the loss of Waeni, and especially how she was killed," reads the statement.
The family eulogised the daughter as an intelligent, smart girl beyond her age at the very start of her youth.
"She was a spirited and caring individual, known for her unwavering kindness, infectious laughter, and ability to light up any room she entered," the family added.
Her family and friends will forever cherish the countless memories of Waeni's joyous presence and her dedication to making a positive impact on those around her.
Waeni's family has asked for privacy as they continue to mourn the death of their daughter.
They have also appealed to the media for respect and understanding as they cope with this profound loss.
"Our focus is on cherishing the precious memories we shared with her and supporting each other as a family," they said.
Extending an arm of gratitude, Waeni's family thanks the DCI for their support and pledged to continue to work with them closely as they diligently work to bring justice for their daughter.
With time, the family hopes that the truth will prevail, and those responsible will be held accountable for what they termed as a senseless act.
"Once again, we appreciate the love and support extended to us during this painful time. We humbly request your understanding and sensitivity as we mourn the loss of our beloved Waeni," reads the statement.