Detectives probing the murder of 26-year-old socialite Starlet Wahu have recovered HIV testing kits, condoms, and other troubling items in the residence of John Matara, a suspected serial killer.
According to police reports, the troubling items were uncovered in Matara’s house in Kahawa West, Nairobi. It is believed that these materials were used in the assault and torture of his victims.
Police were granted a 21-day detention period by the courts to further investigate the suspect after three additional victims came forward, accusing Matara of sexual assault and theft of cash and valuables.
While intensifying their investigation into Matara’s alleged criminal activities, the detectives decided to execute a search of the suspect’s house early Wednesday, January 10. This is when the troubling evidence was discovered.
It is believed Matara would convince his victims to undertake a HIV test as a way of deceiving his clients of his true intentions. He would then engage in intercourse with them and then force them to forcibly share their mobile money PIN numbers.
Those without cash would be forced to call friends and relatives to borrow funds to secure their freedom. Most of the victims that have come forward have described that his weapon of choice is usually a knife. They have gone ahead to share photos of their injuries on social media.
HIV testing kits and condoms were also discovered in the Air BnB where he had checked in with socialite Wahu.
Matara the loner
An independent report by Citizen TV revealed that despite his apparent love for alcohol, Matara led a solitary and quiet life. His house, situated 50 meters off the main road in Kahawa West, was also reportedly frequented by women.
Matara, who moved into the one-bedroomed house in August 2023 without disclosing his employment details, spent his days indoors. He would however leave in the evening and return late at night.
Nicholas Mwangi, the building’s caretaker, still in disbelief described Matara as one living a solitude lifestyle.
“He used to stay indoors during the day, and if he left, he would return late, around 8 o’clock. Down here, we have a security guard who says he used to come at 8, drunk. That’s when he used to bring girls, and they would engage in whatever they were doing. He would then see them off.”
Mwangi also revealed Matara’s financial struggles, noting that the suspect sometimes faced difficulties in paying rent.
Having relocated to this residence after being forced out of apartments near Kenyatta University, Matara’s sparsely furnished living room contained only one seat, a table, and a computer. Other items included empty alcohol bottles, books, and a carpet.
Matara the churchman
Back in Daraja Mbili in Kisii County, Matara’s hometown, the residents are still grappling with shock over the accusations against one of their own. Former friends describe Matara as a God-fearing Christian who actively participated in youth Bible study and music.
“I used to see him come to church early before even lessons began. He knows how to sing… he sings well,” Willis Ombegi, a childhood friend, recalls.
“John was a person deeply involved in the church, and the events that have unfolded are astonishing. But in human life, there comes a time when a person falls,” Zack Owanda, another acquaintance, added.
Preliminary police investigations point to Matara possibly targeting women through online dating services. He is believed to working with a crew of other men and women who not only assault their victims but also rob them.
Matara was arrested at Mbagathi hospital after he killed socialite and Pastor Kanyari’s sister, Starlet Wahu. At the time of his arrest, he was seeking treatment for an injury on his thigh, suspected to have been inflicted during his confrontation with Starlet Wahu.
