By Andrew Kariuki

Residents of Marura village in Kangai Ward, Mwea West Sub-County, have been left in shock following the killing of 104-year-old Lydiah Wangeci Gikunju.

The elderly woman was found dead in her home, with authorities indicating signs of a violent attack. The incident is being treated as a serious criminal case, with investigations already underway.

Her body was discovered by her daughter-in-law, Jane Wanjiru Mbugi, who had gone to check on her as part of her daily routine.

Wanjiru told authorities she used her phone’s torch to enter the house, only to find her mother-in-law unresponsive. She immediately raised the alarm after confirming something was wrong.

Family members, including daughters Margaret Wawira, Regina Muthoni and Sarah Njoki, said they received news of the incident while away from home, expressing shock and grief over the circumstances of their mother’s death.

The family noted that there had been a previous security incident at the homestead, where unknown individuals allegedly broke in and stole food. They claimed the deceased had identified one of the individuals involved.

Residents have since called for swift action from law enforcement, describing the killing as unprecedented in the area.

Detectives from Kiamaciri Police Station visited the scene, secured it and launched investigations.

Police confirmed that one suspect has been arrested after being found within the village in possession of a chicken identified by the family as belonging to the deceased.

The body was moved to Kibugi Funeral Home in Kutus, where a post-mortem examination is expected to be conducted.

Authorities say investigations are ongoing.