The High Court has approved a request to detain three police officers for 30 days as investigations continue into the killing of Dr. Victoria Nthunya Mutiso in Nairobi. The officers, Elijah Kibelion Kimoi, Daniel Njoroge, and Kevin Kinuthia, were presented in court on Monday, where the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) linked each of them to specific roles in the fatal shooting.
In his ruling, Magistrate Paul Mutai stated that releasing the suspects at this stage could compromise the investigation and pose safety risks. He noted that one of the accused is still a serving officer, increasing the likelihood of interference with witnesses or evidence.
According to investigators, Kimoi is suspected to have fired the fatal shot. Njoroge is believed to have used a Toyota Prado to block the victim’s vehicle, while Kinuthia allegedly transported Kimoi to and from the scene using a motorcycle. The three were arrested on August 7, 2026, during what authorities described as an intelligence-led operation and are currently being held at different police stations.
Dr. Mutiso, a former director at the African Institute of Mental and Brain Health, was shot dead on July 29, 2026, in Upper Hill, Nairobi, while inside a vehicle. The case was initially reported at Kibra Police Station before being taken over by the DCI’s Homicide Investigations Bureau. At the scene, detectives recovered spent cartridges and bullet fragments, which were later linked to a Mini Jericho pistol. Authorities say the firearm had been assigned to a senior police officer who is still at large.
Investigators have cited a land dispute as a potential motive for the killing. Dr. Mutiso was reportedly involved in a legal battle over a parcel of land in Machakos. The probe has also revealed that the deceased had previously reported threats to her life, including an incident earlier in July where armed men confronted her near Ngong Road. One of the suspects is believed to have been involved in that encounter.
The DCI has identified Dr. Mutiso’s husband as a key witness, though he has yet to give a full statement due to trauma. Investigators warned that releasing the suspects could expose him and other witnesses to intimidation or interference.
Authorities say several aspects of the case are still under investigation, including forensic analysis of CCTV footage, examination of call data, and recovery of additional weapons. Detectives are also pursuing other suspects believed to be involved.
The court’s decision to extend the suspects’ detention underscores the seriousness of the case, as investigators work to piece together evidence and track down other individuals linked to the murder.
