The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has requested the detention of Kennedy Kalombotole for 21 days to allow for further investigations into the deaths of two patients at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). Kalombotole, who was arraigned at the Kibera Law Courts on Monday, is suspected to be connected to the deaths of Gilbert Kinyua in February and Edward Ndegwa, who died last week under unclear circumstances at the hospital.
The prosecution told the court that investigations are still at an early stage and that more time is needed to gather witness statements and forensic evidence. The DCI is particularly interested in reviewing medical and psychological evaluations of the suspect before deciding whether to press murder charges.
Kalombotole, described by KNH officials as a long-term patient and homeless individual, was first admitted to the hospital in 2022. His status as a vulnerable and mentally unstable patient has added complexity to the case, prompting the court to call for comprehensive medical reports. The court directed that medical records from both Kenyatta National Hospital and Nairobi Women’s Hospital—where Kalombotole had also received treatment—be submitted by Thursday, July 24.
The suspect had reportedly been staying in the hospital wards despite not having an active medical condition at times. KNH has indicated that due to his homeless status, Kalombotole had nowhere else to go, and as such, he was accommodated intermittently as a patient.
The case has raised concerns about hospital security and patient safety, especially in public health institutions handling vulnerable populations. It also highlights the growing challenge of handling patients with mental health conditions who are also homeless and lack social support systems.
The magistrate handling the case will rule on the DCI’s application to detain Kalombotole once the medical reports are reviewed. Meanwhile, the suspect remains in police custody pending further directions from the court.
Authorities have reassured the public that a thorough investigation will be conducted to determine whether foul play was involved in the two deaths.
