Homicide detectives have arrested two suspects in connection with the murder of mental health researcher Dr Victoria Mutiso, who was shot dead on Wednesday morning in Nairobi’s Upper Hill area. According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the arrests were made after officers pursued multiple leads, including witness accounts, forensic evidence, and targeted operations. The suspects are currently in custody and undergoing interrogation as investigations continue.
Detectives also carried out searches at locations linked to persons of interest. During the operations, several items believed to be crucial to the case were recovered and are now undergoing detailed forensic examination. The DCI confirmed that the investigation remains active, with authorities working to piece together the circumstances surrounding the killing.
Dr Mutiso, a respected researcher and director at the Africa Institute of Mental and Brain Health (AFRIMEB), was attacked during her morning commute in what investigators believe was a targeted operation. The incident occurred at around 9 a.m. at the junction of Mbagathi Link Road and Mawenzi Road. Witnesses reported that a Toyota Prado was already stationed at the scene when the Uber vehicle carrying Dr Mutiso arrived. Shortly after, a motorcycle carrying three men approached. One of the attackers reportedly opened fire, shooting her at close range before fleeing. The Prado also left the scene immediately after the attack.
The Uber driver rushed Dr Mutiso to Kenyatta National Hospital in an attempt to save her life, but she was pronounced dead on arrival. Police later secured the vehicle at the hospital as part of the investigation.
The Uber car has since been detained as a key exhibit. Ballistic experts recovered two spent cartridges from inside the vehicle, while investigators are also analyzing mobile phones belonging to both the victim and the driver to trace their movements and communication prior to the shooting. Authorities say investigations are ongoing as they work to establish the motive and identify any additional suspects.
