Detectives in Embu have apprehended a man in connection with the horrifying murder of his former partner, whose body was later discovered in a river.
Benson David Mwendwa, the suspect, is accused of killing 44-year-old Jane Kilonzi at her residence in Mbeere South, where he had been staying.
According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the incident took place following a dispute over Mwendwa’s attempt to stay the night at Kilonzi’s farm, despite their separation several months prior.
Investigative reports indicate that Mwendwa took over the role of farm supervisor after Kilonzi’s husband passed away in 2023.
During a three-month period without a place to stay, Mwendwa resided in a house owned by Kilonzi’s son, which led to the development of a romantic relationship that met with resistance from her son.
The DCI’s statement revealed that Mwendwa was evicted from the house after tensions escalated due to the disapproval from Kilonzi’s son, leading him to seek lodging in the Isakho area.
On the day of the tragic event, Mwendwa visited Kilonzi, and after dining together, insisted on spending the night despite her refusal.
This led to a heated confrontation, during which he struck Kilonzi in the head, rendering her unconscious.
He then transported her to the nearby Ciakarigu River, where he continued to assault her before abandoning her, watching her throughout the night.
Kilonzi’s body was later discovered in the Kiambere division of Mbeere South Sub-County, showing severe injuries and signs of violence.
Following the discovery, authorities launched an extensive manhunt, culminating in Mwendwa’s arrest weeks later.
He appeared in court on Wednesday at the Embu High Court, where he pleaded not guilty to the charges against him.