Family of Rita Waeni Muendo, JKUAT Girl Murdered in Roysambu, Reveals Killer Asked for Ksh 500K

The family of Rita Waeni Muendo, the 20-year-old woman who was found murdered in an apartment in Roysambu on Sunday, has revealed that the perpetrators demanded ransom hours after her mysterious disappearance.

In a statement sent to Kenyans.co.ke, Muendo’s father received a message on the fateful day demanding a ransom of Ksh500,000 within 24 hours for her release.

The family then reported the matter to the police and detectives attached to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).

“Additional two messages were sent to the family demanding the ransom. Unfortunately, the family did not get further details about the ransom or an opportunity to explore this route. Additionally, some demands were made when she had already been murdered,” the statement released by Dr. Lilian Mutea, Family Spokesperson, stated. 

Following investigations conducted by the police, the family received a call that Muendo had been brutally murdered.

The family members believe that she was lured by her killer, who also tried to extort money from them, even after killing her. 

“We are broken and our lives have been shattered, at the loss of Waeni, and especially how she was killed. Her parents, siblings, and our entire family are yet to come to terms with this tragic event,” the family added. 

Muendo was described as a devoted girl who was spirited and caring and was dedicated to making a positive impact in society.

“Our daughter, Waeni, was an intelligent, smart girl beyond her age at the very start of her youth. She was a spirited and caring individual, known for her unwavering kindness, infectious laughter, and ability to light up any room she entered,” Dr. Lilian Mutea explained. 

“Her family and friends will forever cherish the countless memories of Waeni’s joyous presence and her dedication to making a positive impact on those around her.”

“During this period of grief, we kindly request privacy as we mourn the loss of Waeni. Our focus is on cherishing the precious memories we shared with her and supporting each other as a family. We also appeal to the media for respect and understanding as we cope with this profound loss,” they family spokesperson added.

“We sincerely thank the DCI for their support and we continue to work with them closely as they diligently work to bring justice for Waeni. We hope that, in time, the truth will prevail, and those responsible will be held accountable for this senseless act.”

Muendo’s body was found in a mutilated state on Sunday in an apartment in Roysambu. Detectives have since arrested three suspects, including a Nigerian national, who is treated as the main culprit in the gruesome murder.