Do You Know This Man Wanted for Rita Waeni's Murder?

The gruesome murder of third-year university student Rita Waeni sent shockwaves through the country.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has intensified its efforts to apprehend the perpetrator of this heinous crime by releasing a CCTV image of a man suspected to be linked to the case. The image depicts a man donning a black cardigan, dark-coloured trousers, a white cap, and dark sunglasses. Although the image is somewhat blurred, the DCI believes that members of the public who may have encountered this individual in the company of Waeni before her demise could provide crucial information that could lead to his arrest.

The investigation has made significant progress with forensic analyses shedding light on Waeni's final moments and potential suspects being identified. Detailed statements from persons of interest have been recorded and digital platforms have been meticulously scrutinized for any additional data that could aid in unravelling the mystery surrounding her killer(s). The Homicide Directorate has urged the public to come forward with any information that could assist in identifying the man in the image.

According to Waeni's aunt's statement, the victim left her home in Syokimau, Machakos County, on January 13, 2024, never to be seen alive again. The investigation has revealed that Waeni had communicated with her killer on Instagram before the fatal encounter. It is revealed that the individual used the pseudonym profile name "Carlton Maina," which underwent several changes before being swiftly deactivated immediately after Waeni's murder. The 20-year-old was killed days after popular Instagram figure, Starlet Wahu, 26, was found dead in a shortlet in Nairobi.

According to surveillance footage obtained by authorities, Wahu entered the short-term rental property with a male companion on the evening of January 3rd. The following morning, a security guard reported seeing the man leaving the premises with bloodied clothing and a possible leg injury. Investigators arriving at the scene found Wahu deceased, with what appeared to be stab wounds and bite marks on her body. A bloodstained knife and HIV test kits were also recovered from the room. The evidence suggested a violent struggle.