Police in Machakos have arrested a 23-year-old student from the Kenya Medical Training College (KMTC) over the death of her newborn baby.
The baby was discovered in a decomposing state inside a pit latrine in the Kenya Israel estate, Lower Kiandani.
According to a report from Musyi FM, the suspect, identified as Martha Atieno, allegedly dumped the baby just a day after giving birth.
Residents raised concerns after noticing a foul smell coming from the latrine.
Judith Kanini, the caretaker of the compound, said she was alerted by tenants about the smell.
She immediately informed the police, who came to the scene and confirmed the grim discovery.
The area chief, John Musembi, who is currently serving as the acting chief of Machakos Town, confirmed the incident.
He told the media that the suspect was arrested and taken to Machakos Town Police Station.
She is expected to appear in court on Monday to face murder charges.
“The suspect has been arrested and will be arraigned in court to face the law,” Musembi said.
The body of the baby has been moved to the Machakos County Referral Hospital mortuary.
A postmortem will be conducted to establish the exact cause of death.
Residents expressed shock and sadness, saying they could not understand how such a tragic act could happen within their neighborhood.
Authorities have urged the public to speak out and seek help when facing mental or emotional struggles, especially among young mothers.
