In a crime that has stunned residents of Karai in Naivasha, a nanny has been arrested on suspicion of killing her employer and burying her body behind the family’s home.
The suspect, 30-year-old Mary Chebet, was taken into custody after allegedly confessing to the murder of Jane Wambui Njoroge, a health worker at Naivasha Sub-County Hospital.
Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) say Chebet was arrested shortly after Wambui’s husband reported her missing on 4 July. Wambui, a mother and well-known nurse in the area, had left work as usual but never returned home.
“Her disappearance raised immediate concern. The husband reported it, and investigations began immediately,” said a senior officer at Naivasha DCI, who requested anonymity as the case is ongoing.
After days of searching and questioning, Chebet allegedly led police to a shallow grave in the backyard of the family home. There, officers discovered Wambui’s decomposing body. Strips of fabric had been tightly tied around her neck evidence that police believe points to strangulation.
Neighbours gathered in shock as news of the grim discovery spread. “We can’t believe it. She lived with them and cared for their children. It’s heartbreaking,” said one resident, speaking near the taped-off crime scene.
Public health officers assisted detectives in carefully exhuming the body, which has since been taken for a post-mortem examination. The results are expected to offer more insight into the cause and timing of death.
The DCI confirmed the arrest and body’s recovery in a statement on its official social media account. “The suspect remains in custody and will face murder charges once investigations are complete,” the post read.
As of now, police have not confirmed a motive. However, investigators say they suspect the act may have been pre-planned.
The case has sparked renewed public concern over safety within households and the background checks or lack thereof when hiring domestic workers.
“We need better systems to vet those who live and work in our homes,” said Lydia Njuguna, a local community leader. “This case is a painful reminder that trust should never be blind.”
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