Joy Kanini Gathu Murder: Prime Suspect Arrested While Allegedly Fleeing to Uganda

Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested the prime suspect in the murder of 25-year-old Joy Kanini Gathu after an intelligence-led operation that tracked him to Meru County while he was allegedly attempting to flee towards Uganda.

The suspect, identified as John Nderitu Mureithi, was arrested on the night of Friday, July 10, along the Nanyuki-Isiolo Road in Timau, Meru County. The DCI announced the arrest on Sunday, July 12, describing it as a major breakthrough in the investigation into the killing of the former Nyeri Polytechnic student.

Joy Kanini’s dismembered remains were discovered in Ngangarithi Estate in Nyeri County, sparking widespread shock and calls for justice.

Suspect allegedly arrested while fleeing

According to detectives, intelligence gathered during the investigation led officers to Timau, where the suspect was intercepted before he could allegedly continue his journey towards Uganda.

A search conducted during the arrest recovered four mobile phones. Investigators said one of the handsets belonged to Joy Kanini.

All four mobile phones have been secured as exhibits as detectives continue building their case.

Following his arrest, Mureithi was booked at Kiganjo Police Station.

Investigators reconstruct the alleged killing

According to the DCI, investigators established during interrogation that a confrontation between the suspect and Joy Kanini inside his house on June 9, 2026, turned fatal.

Detectives allege the suspect then systematically dismembered her body using a hacksaw before disposing of the remains in several locations in an effort to conceal the crime.

The investigation remains ongoing.

How he became the prime suspect

Before Joy Kanini’s body was discovered, Mureithi—described by investigators as a suspected estranged lover of the deceased—had accompanied her family to a police station in Nyeri to report her missing.

At the time, he was reportedly in possession of Joy Kanini’s mobile phone.

During questioning, investigators said he excused himself under the pretence of making a phone call before walking out of the police station and disappearing.

His phone was later switched off and remained inactive, prompting detectives to intensify efforts to trace him.

Court appearance scheduled

The DCI said Mureithi is expected to appear in court on Monday, July 13, 2026, where detectives will seek custodial orders to allow them to complete investigations into the murder.

The agency also extended condolences to Joy Kanini’s family as investigations continue.

“DCI extends its heartfelt condolences to the family and friends of Joy Kanini Gathu and remains steadfast in its commitment to conducting thorough, fair and impartial investigations to ensure justice is served,” DCI said.

Authorities have maintained that investigations are ongoing as they prepare to present the suspect before court.

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