Piece by: MAUREEN KINYANJUI

17 January 2024

• Family says their daughter was taken from them too soon

The family of the deceased Roysambu woman has broken their silence regarding the tragic death of their loved one.

In a statement obtained by the Star, the Mutea family, to which Rita Waeni Muendo belonged, expressed profound sorrow and heartbreak over the untimely loss of their daughter.

"It is with profound sorrow and broken hearts that we, the Mutea family, address the media today. Our beautiful Waeni, a radiant soul in our lives, was tragically taken from us far too soon," they conveyed.

At the young age of 20, Waeni was about to enter her final year at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT).

Detailing the events leading up to Waeni's death, the family revealed that she left her aunt's residence in Syokimau to meet a friend on Saturday. However, at around 5 am on Sunday, her father received a ransom message from Waeni's phone, demanding Sh500,000 within 24 hours for her release.

The family promptly reported the matter to the police and DCI, initiating an investigation. Two more ransom messages followed, but the family did not receive additional details or an opportunity to negotiate.

Waeni's lifeless body was discovered on Sunday, stuffed in a paper bag off Thika Road, Nairobi. The police disclosed that she had been stabbed and dismembered in an apartment along TRM Drive, Thika Road, with her head still missing.

Even after Waeni's murder, the family received further ransom demands. Despite their painful efforts, they positively identified her as the victim of the tragic incident near Thika Road Mall on the wake of Sunday morning.

The family believes that Waeni was lured by her killer, who continued to extort money even after her death.

Waeni's parents, siblings, and the entire family are devastated by this tragic event, and they request privacy as they mourn their daughter. They appeal to the media for understanding and respect during this difficult time.

The family expressed gratitude to the DCI for their support and pledged to collaborate closely to seek justice for Waeni. They hope that, with time, the truth will prevail, and those responsible for this senseless act will be held accountable.

"We appreciate the love and support extended to us during this painful time. We humbly request your understanding and sensitivity as we mourn the loss of our beloved Waeni," concluded the statement.