“Double Tragedy”: Superior General of Religious Institute in Kenya Speaks on Death, Arrest of its Members

Sources told ACI Africa that Sr. Caroline had recently succeeded the late Sr. Anselmina as head of Nkabune Children’s Home, an orphanage under the Catholic Diocese of Meru.

“The deceased had faithfully served for many years, running a children’s home. She was requested to transfer to allow another Sister to take over, but she declined, having already shared a lot of personal and institutional information with her family,” reads part of a note ACI Africa obtained.

The same note indicates that the late Sr. Anselmina “collapsed and passed away while alone,” adding that Sr. Caroline, the suspect in custody, “does not reside near her room.”

“Nonetheless, a postmortem will be conducted to establish the true cause of death,” the note further reads. 

In her October 15 statement, the Superior General assured the public that the matter is under active police investigation, expressing hope that the truth will soon come to light and that justice will be served.

More in Africa

South African Catholic Bishop Known for Liturgical Reform at Conference Dies at 76

Read the article

“Our prayer is that the truth will finally come to light and justice be served for all those affected by the loss and detention, particularly the families of our two sisters, our Religious family, and the entire Church,” implored Sr. Muguna.

She acknowledged with gratitude the men and women Religious, friends, and benefactors for their support and spiritual solidarity, saying, “May our God, who knows the secrets of each heart, be our strength.”

A judge in Kenya on October 14 ordered the continued detention of Sr. Caroline, citing the seriousness of the alleged offense, the need to complete investigations, and concerns for her personal safety.

Senior Resident Magistrate Evalyne Ndegwa ruled that Sr. Caroline would remain in custody for two weeks to allow investigators to conduct DNA testing and other forensic procedures related to the death of her colleague.

“In my opinion, it is necessary for the suspect’s own safety and protection and to prevent public outrage and retaliation to have her detained at this stage,” magistrate Ndegwa said, referring to Sr. Caroline.

The Kenyan Meru-based magistrate added that the extended detention would enable law enforcement officials “to escort the suspect to the government chemist for DNA analysis” and facilitate the completion of other critical investigative steps.

In her ruling, Magistrate Ndegwa directed that Sr. Caroline, who has been in police custody since October 12, remain detained at the Meru Police Station as investigations continue.

Nicholas Waigwa is a Kenyan multimedia journalist and broadcast technician with a professional background in creating engaging news stories and broadcasting content across multiple media platforms. He is passionate about the media apostolate and Catholic Church communication.