The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has confirmed that investigations into the death of Kenya Forest Service (KFS) Legal Services Manager Esther Wairimu Keige are ongoing, stressing that homicide has not been ruled out.
In a press statement issued on Thursday, the DCI said Keige was reported missing on June 10, 2026, after she was dropped off by her driver at a Shell petrol station in Juja, where she had intended to inquire about gym services. The driver reportedly waited, but she never returned.
Following her disappearance, detectives launched extensive investigations involving CCTV review, forensic analysis, witness interviews, intelligence-led inquiries, mobile phone data analysis, and ground searches across Juja and neighboring areas.
The search culminated on July 6, when a decomposed body was discovered inside a makeshift shelter at Fusion Estate Farm in the Kiaora area of Juja, about seven kilometres west of Juja Police Station.
The body was later identified by Keige’s sister.
According to the DCI, Keige’s mobile phone was recovered intact but switched off, while her shoes were found placed beside her body.
A post-mortem examination found no external physical injuries suggestive of assault, but pathologists were unable to determine the exact cause of death due to the advanced state of decomposition.
“Consequently, samples were collected and submitted for comprehensive toxicological and other forensic analysis to assist in establishing the cause and manner of death,” the statement said.
The agency also disclosed that investigators established Keige had been battling depression and was undergoing treatment, adding that she had previously disappeared from home on three separate occasions before returning safely.
Despite the findings so far, the DCI emphasized that the investigation remains open.
“The DCI wishes to clarify that investigations remain active and that homicide has not been ruled out. Detectives are pursuing all plausible lines of inquiry and are awaiting the outcome of the toxicology and other forensic examinations, which are expected to provide critical leads in the investigation.”
The Directorate appealed to members of the public with information regarding Keige’s movements between June 10 and the recovery of her body to report to the nearest police station or contact the DCI through its toll-free hotline or WhatsApp line, assuring that all information will be treated with strict confidence.
The DCI said it remains committed to conducting a thorough, impartial, and evidence-led investigation to establish the circumstances surrounding Keige’s death and ensure that anyone found culpable is brought to justice.
