Fr Maina murder probe: Some people were demanding money from him - DCI

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has called on the general public to ignore speculation circulating online regarding the death of Father John Maina of Igwamiti Parish in Nyahururu.

Fr Maina died on May 15 at the St Joseph's Mission Hospital in Gilgil shortly after a boda boda rider picked him up by the roadside on the Nakuru-Nairobi highway near the Diotomite stage.

He had bruises on the left side of his head that were oozing blood.

The DCI said he told the rider that he had been abducted from Nyahururu. 

"Tragically, despite the efforts of medical personnel, Fr Maina passed on while undergoing treatment minutes after being admitted," the DCI said.

An autopsy was conducted on May 19, 2025, by Dr Ngulungu, a government pathologist.

"Preliminary findings revealed that the bruises observed on Fr Maina's head were unlikely to be the cause of death. Consequently, samples were collected and sent for further toxicological analysis," the DCI said.

Detectives are now pursuing forensic leads to reconstruct Fr Maina’s final movements, which they hope will lead them to his suspected killers.

Already, several statements have been recorded, with the DCI saying preliminary investigations have established that Fr Maina was being trailed by people who were demanding a share of money he was allegedly given by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua after he presided over a silver jubilee anniversary ceremony of Igwamiti Catholic Parish.

Gachagua and other politicians attended the ceremony on April 27, 2025, where Fr. Simon Thuita was also ordained.

The DCI said detectives are also pursuing reports that Fr Maina had claimed his life was in danger, although he had not reported the same at any police station.

"Our team of dedicated investigators is working diligently to resolve this matter with the utmost integrity and thoroughness to secure justice for the victim and hold accountable those who are responsible for this heinous act," the DCI said.

"We appeal to anyone with information that could assist the investigation to contact the nearest police station or use our toll-free lines: 999, 112, or #FichuaKwaDCI (0800 722 203)," the dci said.