A 17-year-old girl has been arrested in Nakuru County in connection with the murder of a 3-year-old child, a crime that has stunned residents of Menengai and left a community grappling with grief.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) identified the suspect as Lizz Njeri Mwangi, who is accused of killing Margaret Wanjiru Kirathe, aged just three.
DCI officers say they were alerted after the toddler was found lying unconscious about 50 metres from PCEA Shalom Mchanganyiko Church in Menengai. She had been reported missing shortly before.
The child was rushed to Kenlands Hospital, but doctors declared her dead on arrival.
In a statement issued Monday, the DCI revealed that early investigations suggest the suspect lured the girl away from the church to a nearby secluded area. There, she allegedly strangled the child with a piece of cloth. Authorities have not yet determined a motive.
“Acting on intelligence, officers launched an operation that led to Lizz Njeri Mwangi’s arrest at her residence in Judea Village, Menengai Sub-Location, within Kiamaina Ward,” the DCI said.
Police also said they recovered the clothes the suspect was seen wearing on CCTV, along with the piece of cloth believed to have been used in the murder.
The suspect is being held in police custody as detectives continue with interrogations. She is expected to be formally charged in court once investigations are complete.
The murder has sparked outrage in the quiet neighbourhood. Local residents gathered at the scene on Monday, many struggling to make sense of what had happened.
“I knew the child and her family,” said one neighbour, who requested anonymity. “This is beyond heartbreaking. That little girl was always smiling.”
Authorities have urged the public to avoid speculation and allow the justice process to run its course.
As the community mourns, the case has raised fresh concerns over child safety and mental health support for young people. The Kenya Police Service has promised a swift and transparent investigation.
