- Waeni's body was found on Sunday 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.
The family of Rita Waeni Muendo's lady in the Roysambu murder has revealed that the suspect in their daughter's murder demanded ransom.
In a statement on Wednesday, the family stated that the suspect asked for Sh500,000 from the father on Sunday morning before the death of their daughter made headlines.
"On Sunday, January 14, at 5.00 am, her father received a message, delivered from her phone number, demanding a ransom of Sh500,000 within 24 hours for her release," part of the statement read.
After receiving the message, the family reported the matter to the police and DCI, and from there investigations began.
The family said the suspect did not stop there as he added two additional messages were sent to the family demanding the ransom.
Waeni's body was found on Sunday 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.
Her head was chopped off and has still not been recovered by the police.
Detectives on Tuesday interrogated a man they believe murdered the woman.
The suspect was reportedly intercepted at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport as he tried to flee the country.
He was detained pending identification and interrogation, a police source told the Star.
“It is too early to say if he is the man wanted over the murder or not. We have to wait,” a police officer said.
He was detained at the airport before a team of officers from Kasarani and DCI headquarters picked him up for interrogation.
It also emerged the man had called to book the room using a mobile number registered in a woman’s name. He made the call from Ruaka.
The woman's family eulogised her as intelligent, and smart 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.