DPP Announces Breakthrough In Agnes Wanjiru Murder Case

The DPP has appointed a team of senior prosecutors to thoroughly assess the file and determine the appropriate legal course of action.

DPP Announces Breakthrough In Agnes Wanjiru Murder Case
The late Agnes Wanjiru whose body was found in a Septic Tank in Nanyuki in 2012. /UZALENDO NEWS

The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) has announced a key development in the long-standing case surrounding the murder of Agnes Wanjiku Wanjiru, 13 years after she was allegedly murdered by a British soldier.

In an official statement, the ODPP on Monday, April 7, confirmed that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has submitted its completed investigation file for legal review and advice.

In response, the DPP has appointed a team of senior prosecutors to thoroughly assess the file and determine the appropriate legal course of action.

"The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) wishes to inform the general public that, following the conclusion of investigations into the tragic death of Agnes Wanjiku Wanjiru, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has submitted the police inquiry file for review and legal advice," the statement read in part.

Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga speaking at the launch of the NCAJ anti-corruption strategic guiding framework for Kenya’s justice sector on March 25, 2025. /ODPP

"Consequently, the DPP has constituted a team of senior prosecutors to conduct a comprehensive review of the file." The team is tasked with thoroughly examining all legal options before determining the next course of action.

The DPP, Renson Ingonga, further acknowledged the significant time that has elapsed in the matter and remained fully committed to ensuring justice for the family of Wanjiku. 

"The public will be informed of any developments as the case progresses. The DPP assures the family of Agnes Wanjiru and the public that any decision regarding charges will be made in strict adherence to the Constitution, the Decision to Charge (DTC) Guidelines 2019, and applicable laws," added ODPP.

5. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) remains committed to executing its constitutional mandate in accordance with the rule of law, public interest, and the administration of justice.

Wanjiku, who was 21 when she died, was murdered, and her body was found dumped in a septic tank at a hotel near a British military base in Kenya. Her remains were discovered in March 2012, two months after she went missing.

Following her death, reports surfaced that a British soldier had confessed to the killing. However, despite an inquiry launched in 2019, the case has seen little movement.

Wanjiku’s family continues to hope for justice, though their most recent statement reflected a deep sense of frustration and sorrow. “The death of our beloved Agnes has had a profound and devastating impact on our family," the family said.

The family statement added, “It was not only the shock of losing Agnes at such a young age but also the horrific circumstances in which her body was found and all the trauma and struggle our family has been put through in trying to seek justice and accountability for her death that has taken a very heavy toll on all of us."

The latest statement represents a pivotal moment in a case that has remained unresolved for over 12 years. The prolonged delays have sparked mounting frustration, not just from Wanjiku’s family but also from the wider public.

The DPP’s announcement followed a meeting between the UK’s Secretary of State for Defence, John Healey, and the family of the late Wanjiru. During the meeting, Healey assured the family that the UK would remain supportive as they pursue justice for their loved one.

"It was deeply humbling to meet the family of Agnes Wanjiru today. In the 13 years since her death, they have shown such strength in their long fight for justice.

"We will continue to offer our full support to the Kenyan authorities so the family can secure the justice they deserve," the Minister noted in a statement, further revealing plans to escalate the matter to President William Ruto.

A photo of British soldiers in Kenya during a past training session. /UK MINISTRY OF DEFENCE