Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested the prime suspect in the gruesome murder of 25-year-old Joy Kanini Gathu after an intelligence-led operation that ended in Timau, Meru County.
The suspect, identified as John Nderitu Mureithi, was apprehended on the night of July 10 along the Nanyuki-Isiolo Road while allegedly attempting to flee to Uganda. His arrest brought to an end an intensive manhunt by officers from the DCI Homicide Investigations Bureau.
According to the DCI, detectives conducted an immediate search following the arrest and recovered four mobile phones, including the deceased’s handset. The phone has since been secured as a crucial exhibit in the ongoing murder investigation.
Preliminary investigations indicate that the fatal incident occurred on June 9, 2026, following a confrontation between the suspect and Joy Kanini Gathu inside the suspect’s house in Ngangarithi Estate, Nyeri County.
Investigators further established that after the alleged murder, the suspect dismembered the victim’s body before disposing of the remains at different locations in what detectives believe was a calculated attempt to conceal the crime and hinder investigations.
The suspect was booked at Kiganjo Police Station and is expected to be arraigned in court on Monday, July 13, 2026. Detectives will seek custodial orders to allow them to complete investigations before charging him.
In a statement, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations conveyed its condolences to the family and friends of Joy Kanini Gathu, assuring them of its commitment to conducting thorough, fair and impartial investigations.
The case has drawn significant public attention due to its disturbing nature, with investigators expressing confidence that the arrest marks a major breakthrough in the pursuit of justice for the slain 25-year-old.
