UK Police Still Seek Suspect a Year After Murder of Kenyan Citibank Executive

More than a year after Citibank executive Marianne Kilonzi was killed in her London home, police have made no arrests and have not named a suspect.

Marianne Kilonzi, 43, was found dead in her flat on Argyll Road in Woolwich on 17 January 2025. She had been violently beaten. Ms Kilonzi was Kenyan-born and had moved to the United Kingdom two years earlier. She worked as a Vice President for Trade and Working Capital Sales at Citibank and was regarded by colleagues as a highly accomplished professional.

Ms Kilonzi had no surviving parents and no immediate family living in the UK. Her death left friends and colleagues seeking answers as the investigation continued without visible progress.

At an early stage, the Metropolitan Police said they believed the person responsible was likely known to Ms Kilonzi. That assessment has not been formally withdrawn. Neighbours and people familiar with the case also reported that the suspect was believed to have known her. Despite this, police have not identified a suspect publicly and no arrests have been made.

In a statement issued on the anniversary of her death, the Metropolitan Police said the investigation remains active. Officers said one line of enquiry is whether the suspect may have left the country. The force stated that its priority is to secure justice and said decisions about public appeals are based on investigative considerations rather than the victim’s race or gender.

Campaign groups have expressed concern about the lack of updates and public engagement. Andrea Simon, Executive Director of the End Violence Against Women Coalition, said the absence of progress has prolonged distress for those who knew Ms Kilonzi. She warned that delays increase the risk that a potentially dangerous individual remains free.

Selma Taha, director of the domestic abuse charity Southall Black Sisters, questioned why police have not issued further appeals for information. She said cases involving Black and minoritised women often receive limited public attention and insufficient follow-up.

Members of the Kenyan diaspora have also raised concerns about the pace of the investigation. Many have pointed to the early indication that the suspect was known to the victim and questioned why this has not led to clearer outcomes.