DCI Probes Death of Nyahururu Priest Amid Allegations of Foul Play

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched an intensive probe into the suspicious death of Father John Maina, a Catholic priest from Igwamiti Parish in Nyahururu.

Fr. Maina was reported to have attended a silver jubilee celebration and the ordination of Father Simon Thuita on April 27, 2025. The event was graced by prominent leaders, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.

On May 15, Fr. Maina was discovered in critical condition by a boda boda rider near the Diotomite stage along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway. He reportedly told the Good Samaritan that he had been abducted from Nyahururu. The priest was rushed to St. Joseph’s Mission Hospital in Gilgil with visible injuries, including bleeding head bruises. Despite medical intervention, he succumbed to his injuries shortly after arrival.

Following his death, Fr. Maina’s body was transferred to the Nyahururu Sub-County morgue for preservation and postmortem examination. A May 19 autopsy conducted by government pathologist Dr. Ngulungu revealed that the head bruises were unlikely to have caused his death. Toxicology tests have been ordered to determine whether poisoning or other substances were involved.

Preliminary investigations suggest Fr. Maina may have been trailed by individuals allegedly demanding a share of money he reportedly received from the former Deputy President during the church event. Authorities are also looking into claims that Fr. Maina had expressed fears for his life, though no official report had been filed.

The DCI confirms that multiple witness statements have been recorded, and forensic teams are reconstructing the priest’s final moments. The search for suspects is ongoing, with authorities pledging to bring the perpetrators of this heinous crime to justice.