In a shocking and gruesome incident, detectives in Kenya have apprehended two Nigerians, William Opia and Johnbull Asbor, on charges of allegedly murdering and dismembering Rita Waeni, a 20-year-old student at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology. The discovery of Waeni’s head, wrapped in a purple blouse and concealed in a sack, has sent shockwaves through the community, intensifying the search for her killers.
The suspects, reported to be residing illegally in Kenya, were found in an apartment in Ndenderu, Kiambu County, not far from where the victim’s head was discovered. Opia’s passport had expired, and Asbor claimed to have lost his travel documents two years ago, raising questions about their legal status.
DCI detectives, utilizing leads and evidence from the Kasarani crime scene, located the suspects. Constable Benjamin Wangila from Kasarani DCI offices emphasized the proximity of the suspects to the crime scene, strengthening the case against them.
During the arrest, authorities recovered a hatchet, a butcher’s knife, a Kenyan national ID (belonging to an unknown person), six mobile phones, three laptops, 10 SIM cards, and various other items from the suspects’ hideout. The investigation team aims to analyze call data records from the seized devices to establish the suspects’ connection to the murder.
Constable Benjamin Wangila, in an affidavit filed to the court, highlighted the importance of obtaining blood samples for DNA analysis and comparison against crime scene samples. Due to concerns about the suspects being flight risks, Senior Principal Magistrate Agnes Mwangi of Makadara Law Courts granted an eight-day detention order at Kasarani police station.
The affidavit also revealed that Opia allegedly purchased the hatchet online for self-defense. The ongoing investigation is focused on comprehending the motive behind Waeni’s murder and reconstructing the events leading to her tragic death. Authorities are determined to bring justice to the victim and her grieving community.
