Police in Kirinyaga County have launched investigations following the killing of a 28-year-old Junior Secondary School (JSS) teacher whose body was discovered near the Nyamindi River in Mwea East Sub-County on Thursday morning.
The victim, Beaty Wanjiru Nyaga, was a teacher at Ithiga ria Njuki Primary School located in Riagiceru Location. According to family members, she was last seen on Monday before her body was found days later under circumstances that have shocked the local community.
Relatives described Nyaga as a committed educator and devoted mother. Her cousin, Sarah Njeri, a teacher at St Paul Primary School, expressed grief over the incident, saying the family was struggling to come to terms with the loss.
“She was a dedicated teacher and a loving mother,” Njeri said, adding that the family is devastated by the tragic death.
Body believed to have been dumped
Local authorities suspect the teacher may have been killed elsewhere before her body was dumped near the river.
Immaculate Wanjiru Njoka, the chief of Nyangati Location, said initial observations suggest the crime occurred at a different location before the body was abandoned at the scene where it was discovered.
According to the victim’s father, Jeremiah Nyaga, he received a call around midnight from a man who identified himself as his daughter’s boyfriend. The caller reportedly informed him that Nyaga had been found unresponsive in Mugomoini.
The man was identified as Peter Kanumbi, a resident of Nguchui Village, who is now the main suspect in the case.
Police launch manhunt
Detectives from Wang’uru Police Station have begun investigations and are actively searching for the suspect, who remains at large.
Chief Njoka said authorities are pursuing leads as part of efforts to establish the circumstances surrounding the teacher’s death.
“It is alleged that her boyfriend, from Nguchui village, is responsible for her death,” she said.
Family calls for justice
The victim leaves behind a young child, and her family is urging authorities to ensure those responsible are brought to justice.
Njeri appealed to members of the public who may have information about the case to assist investigators.
“We want justice for our daughter who has left a child. Anyone with information should come forward,” she said.
Police have urged residents with relevant information to report to authorities as investigations continue into the killing.
