The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued an update on the ongoing probe into the mysterious death of Father John Maina, a Catholic priest from Nyandarua County. Father Maina, who served at Igwamiti Parish in Nyahururu, was recently in the public spotlight for hosting a high-profile religious event attended by former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua and other political figures.
According to the update, the DCI is investigating the circumstances surrounding Father Maina’s death, which has sent shockwaves through the local community. The investigation reveals that the priest had participated in a significant religious function on April 27, 2025 the Silver Jubilee Anniversary of Igwamiti Parish and the ordination of Father Simon Thuita. The event drew widespread attention due to the presence of senior political leaders.
Just weeks after the ceremony, Father Maina was found dead along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway. His body was discovered near the Diatomite stage by a passing motorcycle rider. The priest reportedly had bruises on the left side of his head and is said to have told the rider before he succumbed that he had been abducted from Nyahururu. However, preliminary autopsy findings conducted on May 19, 2025, indicated that the bruises on his head were unlikely to have caused his death. This revelation has deepened the mystery, prompting investigators to explore other possibilities, including poisoning or internal trauma.
Samples collected during the autopsy have been forwarded for toxicological analysis to determine whether Father Maina may have been exposed to any harmful substances. Investigators are particularly interested in the moments leading up to his disappearance and death, hoping that the forensic tests will shed light on the true cause.
Emerging details suggest that Father Maina may have been under pressure following the high-profile church event. Authorities have established that he was being followed by unknown individuals allegedly demanding a share of money reportedly given to him during the ceremony. Though there is no official confirmation of any monetary exchange, this angle has become a critical part of the investigation.
In addition, detectives are probing reports that the priest had expressed fears for his safety in the days leading up to his death. While he reportedly confided in some close associates that his life was in danger, he had not filed any formal complaint with the police. This lack of documentation has made it more challenging for investigators to piece together a clear timeline of threats or harassment he may have faced.
Several individuals have already provided statements to assist the investigation, and authorities are pursuing multiple leads, including digital and forensic evidence, to reconstruct Father Maina’s final movements. Surveillance footage, mobile phone data, and other technological resources are being analyzed in an effort to trace his last interactions and identify potential suspects.
The DCI has reiterated its commitment to bringing the perpetrators to justice, describing the killing as a heinous act. The case continues to unfold, with both the Catholic Church and the wider community calling for transparency, accountability, and swift action to ensure that those responsible are held to account.
