The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched a full-scale probe into the mysterious death of Father John Maina, a Catholic priest from Igwamiti Parish in Nyahururu, who died under unclear circumstances days after claiming he had been abducted.
According to the DCI, the investigation centers around the events following a church ceremony on April 27, 2025, where Fr. Maina presided over a silver jubilee celebration at Igwamiti Catholic Parish.
The ceremony was attended by several dignitaries, including former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and a number of local politicians.
Fr. Maina was last seen alive on May 15, when he was found injured near Diotomite stage along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway.
A motorcyclist who discovered the priest reported that he had visible injuries and claimed he had been kidnapped from Nyahururu.
The good Samaritan rushed him to St. Joseph’s Mission Hospital in Gilgil, where doctors noted bruises on the left side of his head, with bleeding wounds.
Despite efforts to save his life, Fr. Maina succumbed to his injuries shortly after being admitted.
His body was transferred to the Nyahururu Sub-County Hospital morgue for preservation and further examination.
A postmortem conducted on May 19 by government pathologist Dr. Ngulungu revealed that the head injuries may not have directly caused his death.
Toxicological samples have been taken for further analysis to determine whether poisoning or other causes may be involved.
Preliminary investigations suggest that Father Maina had received a substantial sum of money, allegedly handed to him by political figures during the jubilee event.
Sources familiar with the investigation say he had recently confided in close associates that unknown individuals were trailing him and demanding a share of the funds.
Although he reportedly feared for his life, he had not filed any official police report regarding threats or harassment.
Detectives are now piecing together his final movements and interactions in the days leading up to his death.
Several individuals have already been questioned, and forensic teams are analyzing digital and physical evidence as they pursue key leads in the case.
Authorities are appealing to the public for assistance.
Anyone with information that could aid in the investigation is urged to contact the nearest police station or use the DCI’s anonymous reporting channels, including #FichuaKwaDCI (0800 722 203) or emergency lines 999 and 112.
The DCI has also called for calm as speculation surrounding the case swirls on social media.
In a statement, the agency assured the public that a thorough and impartial investigation is underway to uncover the truth and ensure justice for Fr. Maina.
