Murdered priest was trailed by persons demanding money, says DCI
Detectives are investigating reports that Fr. Maina had claimed his life was in danger.
Police are investigating the circumstances under which a Nyahururu-based priest was killed under unclear circumstances.
According to reports, Father John Maina from Igwamiti Parish, Nyahururu, attended a silver jubilee anniversary ceremony of the Igwamiti Catholic parish and the ordination of Father Simon Thuita.
Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accompanied by other politicians, attended the ceremony.
"On May 15, 2025, Fr. Maina was discovered along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway by a good Samaritan, a motorcycle rider near the Diotomite Stage with bruises on the left side of his head," said the Directorate of Criminal Investigations in a statement.
"He told the boda boda rider that he had been abducted from Nyahururu. The rider took Fr. Maina to St. Joseph's Mission Hospital in Gilgil."
Upon arrival at the hospital, he displayed visible injuries, including bruises on the left side of his head, which were oozing blood.
Tragically, despite the efforts of medical personnel, Fr. Maina passed on while undergoing treatment minutes after being admitted, adds the DCI.
His body was moved to the Nyahururu Sub-County morgue upon request by his fellow worshippers for preservation and autopsy.
On May 19, 2025, the autopsy was conducted by Dr. Ngulungu, a government pathologist.
"Preliminary findings revealed that the bruises observed on Fr. Maina's head were unlikely to be the cause of death," explains the statement.
"Consequently, samples were collected and sent for further toxicological analysis."
The DCI suggests that the clergyman was targeted for financial reasons by unnamed individuals.
"It has been established that Fr. Maina was being trailed by some individuals who were demanding a share of the money allegedly given to him after he presided over the Silver Jubilee Anniversary Ceremony by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua," said the investigative agency.
Further, detectives are investigating reports that Fr. Maina had claimed his life was in danger, though he had not reported the same at any police station.
According to the DCI, several statements have been recorded, and detectives are actively pursuing forensic leads to reconstruct Father Maina’s final movements and arrest suspects.
"The authorities are committed to identifying and apprehending those responsible for this heinous act. We appeal to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact the nearest police station or use our toll-free lines: 999, 112, or #FichuaKwaDCI (0800 722 203)," added the statement.
It also called on the public to remain calm amidst speculations over the murder on various digital platforms.
"Our team of dedicated investigators is working diligently to resolve this matter with the utmost integrity and thoroughness to secure justice for the victim and hold accountable those who are responsible for this heinous act," concluded the statement.
