The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has finally shed light on the mysterious death of Father John Maina, a Catholic priest from Nyandarua, whose body was found on May 15 along the Nakuru-Nairobi highway in Kikopey, far from his parish in Igwamiti, Laikipia County.
According to a postmortem conducted by government pathologist Dr. Titus Ngulungu at the Pope Benedict Hospital mortuary, Father Maina died from multiple gunshot wounds. One bullet fatally pierced his head, indicating a targeted and brutal attack.
Although the full autopsy report was kept confidential at the request of the Church, sources revealed that the priest’s body showed signs of severe violence. His skull had significant damage and early signs of decomposition, suggesting he may have been killed elsewhere before his body was dumped by the roadside.
Father Maina had recently hosted former Deputy President Rigathi Gachagua at a church anniversary event. He was known for his peaceful nature and strong commitment to community development.
His sudden and violent death has left parishioners and family members in deep shock.
“My calls to him went unanswered that day. Later, I was informed that he had been found dead,” said his aunt, Ms. Susan Njambi, who had been trying to reach him with news about a sick relative.
Investigators are now working to trace the priest’s final moments and determine who may have wanted him silenced—and why. Police believe the postmortem findings will play a key role in identifying his killers.
Father John Maina, 39, will be laid to rest on Thursday at Tabor Hill Catholic Cemetery in Ol Joro Orok. His death has sparked calls for justice from both the Church and the wider community, where he served faithfully for over a decade.
