Christmas Day brought shock and grief to residents of Igoji after the body of a young girl was discovered along a quiet road near Igoji Teachers College.
What should have been a joyful morning turned into one filled with sorrow as news spread that a 14-year-old child had lost her life under disturbing circumstances.
The body was found early in the morning by a boda boda rider who was going about his normal routine.
After making the discovery, he alerted authorities, prompting police officers to rush to the scene.
According to officers who examined the area, there were clear signs that something violent had taken place.
The surroundings showed evidence of a struggle, raising fears that the girl may have been attacked before she died.
The victim was later identified as Betty Karendi, a Grade 9 pupil at St. Jude Primary School in Igoji. Her death has deeply affected her family, classmates, teachers, and the wider community.
Many described her as a young girl with a promising future, making the loss even more painful for those who knew her.
Betty’s mother told police that her daughter left home on the evening of December 24.
She had explained that she was going to attend a Christmas Eve church vigil, which is a common tradition in the area during the festive season.
At the time, there was no reason for the family to worry, as such gatherings are usually considered safe and familiar.However, new details later emerged that painted a different picture of her final hours.
Witnesses claimed that Betty was seen that night in the company of friends at Farm Fresh Garden and Restaurant, a place located near Igoji Teachers College.
According to these accounts, she stayed there for some time before leaving around midnight with people who have not yet been identified.
Around the same period, some residents living nearby reported hearing screams coming from the area. Sadly, many assumed the sounds were part of Christmas celebrations and did not raise an alarm.
In hindsight, this detail has added to the pain and regret felt within the community.
Police officers from Kieni Kia Ndege Police Station have taken over the investigation. Betty’s body was moved to Kanyakine Hospital Mortuary, where it is being preserved as inquiries continue.
A post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted to help establish the exact cause of death and provide more clarity on what happened that night.
Investigators have confirmed that CCTV cameras are installed at the restaurant where Betty was last seen. The footage is believed to be crucial in tracing her final movements and identifying the individuals she was with.
Although the recordings have not yet been made public, police say they are reviewing them as part of the investigation.Because the victim was a minor, there is growing pressure for fast, open, and thorough investigations.
Community members, leaders, and human rights groups are calling for justice and accountability. Many are urging anyone who may have information, no matter how small, to come forward and assist the authorities.
Add Comment