A Meru law court has ordered a Catholic nun to remain in custody for 14 days as police continue investigations into the mysterious death of her colleague, Sister Anselmina (Ansilime) Karimi, whose body was discovered under suspicious circumstances over the weekend.
The suspect, Sister Caroline Kanjiru, appeared before Senior Principal Magistrate Thomas Muraguri on Tuesday, where police sought to detain her to allow time for forensic analysis and further questioning.
Investigating officer Abdul Tulla told the court that Sister Caroline is a flight risk and could interfere with potential witnesses if released. The officer further noted that investigators needed time to retrieve phone data, conduct DNA and mental health assessments, and await the results of a postmortem examination on the deceased.
According to police reports, Sister Karimi, aged 65, was found dead in her house in Nkabune, Meru County, on Sunday morning, October 12. She had visible bruises on her hands and legs and injuries to her head, suggesting possible foul play.
Sister Caroline had earlier told investigators that the deceased fell ill and died while she was taking her to Nkubu Hospital for treatment. However, detectives say that version of events does not align with physical evidence gathered from the scene.
“The deceased had bruises on her hands and legs and blood oozing from her mouth and ears. Preliminary findings point to a struggle before her death,” a police source familiar with the case said.
The court heard that the late Sister Karimi served as the administrator of a local children’s home managed by the Catholic Church. Reports indicate that Sister Caroline was set to take over management duties from her, a transition that may have caused friction between the two.
While the police suspect a possible dispute as a motive, investigators have not ruled out other lines of inquiry.
The defence, led by Sister Caroline’s lawyer, opposed the 14-day detention request, arguing that the nun had voluntarily presented herself to police and was not a flight risk. He further insisted that the church was willing to ensure her appearance in court whenever required.
However, Magistrate Muraguri granted the prosecution’s application, directing that Sister Caroline be held at Meru Police Station pending completion of investigations.
The judge also instructed police to expedite the postmortem and forensic examinations and submit a full report before the next mention date.
The death of Sister Karimi has shocked the Catholic community in Meru, with congregants describing her as “a humble and motherly figure devoted to the care of children.”
Church officials have appealed for calm as police continue their probe, urging the faithful not to speculate until investigations are concluded.
“This is a painful and confusing moment for the church. We trust that the truth will come out,” said a senior clergy member from the Nkabune parish, who requested anonymity.
The body of Sister Karimi is currently lying at Nkubu Mission Hospital mortuary awaiting postmortem.
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