Police in Nakuru County have arrested a 16-year-old boy suspected of defiling and killing a Grade 6 learner before dumping her body in a maize plantation.
Victim Reported Missing After School
The deceased, identified as Mercy Nyambura, was reported missing after she failed to return home from school on Monday.
Villagers and family members launched a search for the young girl before her school bag was discovered a short distance from where her body was later found.
Scene Suggested Violent Struggle
According to preliminary witness accounts, the scene indicated there had been a violent struggle before the learner was brutally murdered.
The incident has shocked residents and sparked outrage within the local community.
Suspect Arrested After Allegedly Fleeing
Authorities say the suspect allegedly fled his parents’ home in Njoro following the incident and sought refuge at his aunt’s residence in Mau Narok.
Police later tracked him down and placed him under arrest.
Suspect Claims Evil Spirits Influenced Him
Following his arrest, the minor reportedly claimed he was possessed by evil spirits that drove him to commit the act.
Investigators are continuing to examine the circumstances surrounding the incident as the suspect remains in police custody.
Investigations Ongoing
Police have launched full investigations into the murder as residents continue to demand justice for the slain learner.
The body of Mercy Nyambura was moved to the mortuary pending postmortem examination and other procedures.
