Woman Arrested After Lover’s Christmas Day Killing in Kirinyaga

Police in Kirinyaga County have arrested a 40-year-old woman accused of killing her lover during a bar dispute on Christmas Day.

The incident happened at Muragara Trading Centre in Ndia Sub-County. The suspect, Edith Muthoni, allegedly stabbed Peter Mwangi Wanyeki, 52, during an argument at a local entertainment joint.

Kirinyaga West (Ndia) Sub-County Police Commander Jos Mudavadi said officers tracked down Muthoni after she went into hiding. Police arrested her at Kandegwa village and placed her in custody.

“She fled after the incident, but our officers established her location and arrested her,” Mudavadi said. “She is currently being held at Baricho Police Station as investigations continue.”

Argument Over Alcohol Bill

Police said the suspect and the deceased spent most of Christmas Day together drinking. Trouble started later in the evening after a disagreement over a KSh60 alcohol bill.

Witnesses told officers the argument quickly turned violent. Muthoni allegedly grabbed a kitchen knife and stabbed Wanyeki in the chest.

A resident, Florence Mureithi, said staff had been using the knife to prepare food during Christmas celebrations.

“I was cutting potatoes when she suddenly picked up the knife and stabbed him,” Mureithi told police.

Wanyeki died at the scene from his injuries.

Family in Shock

The killing shocked Wanyeki’s family, who were celebrating Christmas in the village at the time.

“We received a call telling us my brother had been killed,” said Robert Wanyeki. “It was shocking because we knew the woman, and she lives nearby.”

Another relative, Kaburu Gatimu, welcomed the arrest and called for justice.

“He was a good driver who helped many people in the community,” Gatimu said. “We expected joy during Christmas, but instead we are mourning.”

Police moved the body to a local mortuary as investigations continue.