Family of Student Murdered in Roysambu Breaks Silence, Reveals Ksh500,000 Ransom Demand

The family of the 20-year-old girl murdered in Roysambu has finally broken their silence.

In a statement, the family revealed that the girl was identified as Rita Waeni Muendo who was a student at the Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology (JKUAT). 

On Saturday, January 13, she reportedly left her aunt's place in Syokimau to meet with a friend.  

However, on Sunday, January 14 at around 5 am, her father received a strange message from a person demanding Ksh500,000. The family was reportedly given 24 hours to wire the money.

They reported the matter to the police. 

"On Saturday, 13th January 2024, our daughter Rita Waeni Muendo left her aunt's residence in Syokimau to meet with a friend. On Sunday, January 14th, at 5.00 am, her father received a message, delivered from her phone number, demanding a ransom of Ksh500,000 within 24 hours for her release. With this message, the family reported the matter to the police and DCI, and investigations began," the statement shared by the family read in part.

"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."

They described the deceased as a determined student who was on course to finish her university education.

"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. 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."

The family however requested privacy and appealed to the public to allow them to mourn their kin in peace.

"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," the family pleaded.