The autopsy on the body of catholic priest Father John Maina from Igwamiti Parish, Nyahururu is inconclusive.
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.
On May 19, 2025, the autopsy was conducted by Dr. Titus Ngulungu, a government pathologist.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations is now investigating the circumstances surrounding the murder of the priest.
Father Maina had claimed his life was in danger. But police say he did not report the same.
Reports indicate that, on April 27, 2025, Fr. Maina attended a silver jubilee anniversary ceremony of Igwamiti Catholic parish and the ordination of Father Simon Thuita. Former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua, accompanied by other politicians, attended the ceremony.
On May 15, 2025, Fr. Maina was discovered along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway by a good Samaritan, a motorcycle rider near the Diotomite stage with bruises on the left side of his head.
He told the boda boda rider that he had been abducted from Nyahururu.
The rider took Fr. Maina to St. Joseph’s Mission Hospital in Gilgil.
Upon arrival at the hospital, he displayed visible injuries, including bruises on the left side of his head, which were oozing blood.
Tragically, despite the efforts of medical personnel, Fr. Maina passed on while undergoing treatment minutes after being admitted.
His body was moved to the Nyahururu Sub-County morgue upon request by his fellow worshippers for preservation and autopsy.
It has been established that Fr. Maina was being trailed by some individuals who were demanding a share of the money allegedly given to him after he presided over the Silver Jubilee Anniversary Ceremony by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua.
Further, detectives are investigating reports that Fr. Maina had claimed his life was in danger, though he had not reported the same at any police station.
So far, police said, several statements have been recorded, and detectives are actively pursuing forensic leads to reconstruct Father Maina’s final movements and arrest suspects.
The DCI said the authorities are committed to identifying and apprehending those responsible for this heinous act.
This is even as they appealed for information that may help in knowing the killers and motive
“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 urges the public to remain calm amidst the swirling speculations on various digital platforms.
“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.”
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel

