Kasarani, Nairobi – In a shocking turn of events, a 21-year-old man named Victor Ambeyi has been arrested and has confessed to the brutal murder of 78-year-old Catherine Waceke Kimotho. The incident, which has sent ripples of fear through the local community, reportedly stemmed from a dispute over wages.
Catherine Waceke Kimotho was a well-respected member of her community in Nyathain, Kasarani. Known for her kindness and generosity, she often employed young people from the area for casual work around her home. On November 9, 2024, family members grew concerned when they could not reach her by phone and noticed that she had not been seen for several days. This prompted them to visit her home, where they made the grim discovery that would lead to a police investigation.
Upon entering Kimotho’s residence, family members were struck by an unusual smell emanating from the property. Alarmed, they searched the house and eventually discovered her body wrapped in blankets and concealed within a septic tank filled with animal sewer in the backyard. The family immediately contacted local authorities, who arrived on the scene to investigate further.
Detectives quickly noted signs of foul play; Kimotho had sustained severe blunt force trauma to her head, indicating that she had been violently attacked. The police also found evidence suggesting that a struggle had taken place inside the home.
Following the discovery of Kimotho’s body, detectives began their investigation by interviewing neighbours and examining security footage from nearby homes. Their inquiries quickly led them to Victor Ambeyi, who had been working for Kimotho as a casual labourer for several months.
Ambeyi was apprehended on November 10, just one day after the body was discovered. During questioning, he initially denied any involvement but eventually confessed to the crime. According to police reports, Ambeyi claimed that he had confronted Kimotho about unpaid wages, which escalated into a violent altercation.
In his confession, Ambeyi stated that he had become increasingly frustrated over what he perceived as unfair treatment regarding his pay. He alleged that during their confrontation, he struck Kimotho in anger, leading to her death. After realising what he had done, Ambeyi panicked and attempted to conceal her body in the septic tank.
To further distance himself from the crime, Ambeyi reportedly sold Kimotho’s mobile phone at a local shop shortly after the murder. Police were able to trace the phone’s location and linked it back to him through forensic evidence collected at the scene.
The murder of Catherine Waceke Kimotho has shocked residents of Kasarani. Many expressed their disbelief that such violence could occur in their neighbourhood.
“She was like a grandmother to many of us,” said one neighbour who wished to remain anonymous. “It’s heartbreaking to think someone could do this to her.”
Community leaders have called for increased vigilance and support for vulnerable individuals living alone. “We must ensure our elderly citizens are safe,” said local council member Jane Mwangi. “This incident is a wake-up call for all of us.”
Victor Ambeyi is currently being held at Kasarani Police Station as investigations continue. He is expected to be charged with murder and will appear in court later this week. Legal experts suggest that if convicted, he could face life imprisonment under Kenyan law.
The case has drawn attention not only due to its tragic nature but also because it highlights broader issues regarding violence against women and vulnerable populations in Kenya. Advocacy groups are calling for more robust measures to protect those at risk and ensure justice for victims of violence.
As the community mourns the loss of Catherine Waceke Kimotho, many are left grappling with questions about safety and justice. The tragic circumstances surrounding her death serve as a stark reminder of the vulnerabilities faced by elderly individuals living alone and underscore the need for greater community awareness and support systems.
The investigation into this case continues as police gather more evidence and prepare for upcoming legal proceedings against Victor Ambeyi. The hope remains that justice will be served for Catherine Waceke Kimotho and that her memory will inspire positive change within the community she cherished so deeply.