97 women killed in three months, police say as they vow to end femicide

The National Police Service has assured Kenyans of its commitment to addressing and investigating all femicide-related cases in the country.

Highlighting the importance of timely conclusion of these cases, Deputy Inspector General of Police Eliud Lagat noted that this ensures justice is served not only to the victims but also their families.

Addressing the press Wednesday in Nairobi, Lagat admitted that there has been a sharp rise in cases of murder and manslaughter as he called for concerted efforts to end it.

“We urge every member of society, including governmental, civil, and religious leaders, to engage in this crucial dialogue,” he said. “Collective action can help us to eradicate the scourge of femicide and safeguard the lives of our citizens,” he added.

Lagat disclosed that in the last three months alone, they have recorded 97 cases of femicide reported in various parts of the country.

He, however, stated that they have made progress in ensuring they conclude probes into these cases.

He said through targeted strategies and collaborative efforts with various stakeholders, they aim to establish a safer environment for women and ensure comprehensive investigation and prosecution of all cases.

His address comes in the wake of calls by leaders to end the killings.

“About 90 per cent of femicide cases have been thoroughly investigated, resulting in the arrest of suspects, with these cases now pending in courts,” he said.

He cited the murder of Marybell Amankor Kapolong in Imenti North in 2018. Another significant case, he stated, is that of Monica Nyawira in 2018 in Kilimani, where the accused, Jowie Irungu, was handed a a life sentence.

He also mentioned that of Sheilah Adhiambo Lumumba killed in 2022 in Nyeri, and which the prime suspect was jailed for 30 years in prison.

“These cases highlights the NPS unwavering commitment to bringing justice to victims and communities impacted by violent crime,” he stated.

Lagat who was flanked by his counterpart Gilbert Masengeli, Gender Principal Secretary Anne Wangombe and DCI boss Mohame Amin also appealed for information that will lead to the re-arrest of Collins Jumaisi Khalusha.

Jumaisi, who is the primary suspect in the Kware murders escaped from police custody.

Wangombe echoed the sentiments urging Kenyans to remain vigilant and report to the law enforcers any suspicious characters, strangers or situations.

This, as she sympathised with the affected noting that such acts have made people to live in constant fear and anxiety about their safety and those of their loved ones.

“It is an inherent right to live. As such everyone, irrespective of their gender, should be allowed to enjoy it,” she said.

She said as the government, they are committed to strengthening prevention mechanisms against heinous acts such as these and build the necessary confidence that we are all safe in our familiar environments.

“We remain firm in our commitment to mitigating gender-based violence and ensuring swift justice to victims of GBV, while collaboratively addressing cultural and societal biases that perpetuate femicide and violence in all its forms,” said Wangombe.

On Tuesday, Kirinyaga Governor Anne Waiguru has asked police to stop the ongoing killings of young people in the country.

Waiguru said the country is stunned by the spate of mysterious deaths that are being reported across the nation every day.

She spoke during the burial ceremony of Seth Nyakio, the daughter of Kirinyaga nominated Member of County Assembly (MCA) Lucy Njeri, who was found murdered at Biafra estate in Thika town on October 14.

Nyakio was found murdered in a rented room in Thika, where she had travelled to see a friend. She even shared a photo of herself with friends on Sunday before requesting Sh1,000 from her mother, who promptly sent the money.