The Meru Law Courts have granted police permission to detain Catholic nun Sister Caroline Kanjiru for 14 days as investigations continue into the shocking murder of Sister Anselmina Karimi, the 65-year-old administrator of Nkabune Children’s Home in Meru County.
Senior Resident Magistrate Everlyn Ndegwa approved the application by lead investigating officer Abdul Tulla, citing the need to safeguard the suspect amid public outrage and allow detectives sufficient time to carry out forensic and DNA analysis at the Government Chemist.
The court directed that Sister Kanjiru remain in custody at Meru Police Station until investigations are completed.
Murder Probe Intensifies in Meru
According to police reports, the late Sister Karimi was found dead inside her residence on Sunday. However, detectives suspect she may have been killed elsewhere before her body was moved to the house, a theory now central to the ongoing probe.
The brutal killing, which occurred on Saturday night in Imenti North Sub-County, has sent shockwaves through the Meru Catholic Diocese and the wider religious community. Church leaders and residents have called for a thorough investigation to ensure justice for the slain nun.
Key Details and Investigation Focus
Sources close to the investigation revealed that Sister Kanjiru was scheduled to take over the management of Nkabune Children’s Home from the deceased — a detail that has heightened public interest and speculation regarding a possible motive.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), through its Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau, has taken over the case as detectives pursue leads and await forensic test results.
The matter will be mentioned again on October 28, 2025, when investigators are expected to brief the court on their progress and determine whether Sister Kanjiru will face formal murder charges or be released.
Community and Church Reaction
The death of Sister Karimi, described by many as a dedicated servant of the church and community, has left parishioners and local residents in disbelief.
Members of the Meru Catholic Diocese have held prayer vigils in her memory, calling for peace, justice, and unity amid the tragedy.
A senior church representative who spoke on condition of anonymity said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss of Sister Anselmina. She was a pillar of compassion and service to children in need.”
What’s Next in the Case
Police are continuing to analyze evidence collected from the crime scene, including fingerprints, DNA samples, and surveillance footage from the area surrounding the children’s home.
Detectives are also interviewing staff members and residents who interacted with the two nuns prior to the incident. The findings will inform whether the suspect will be charged with murder or released pending further investigation.