KNH murder suspect to be held at Mbagathi Hospital

Kennedy Kalombotole, a suspect in the murder of a patient at KNH arrives at Kilimani Police Station on July 18,2025. [Elvis Ogina, Standard]

A Nairobi court has ordered that Kennedy Kalombotole, the prime suspect in the killing of a patient at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), be held at Mbagathi Hospital under tight security for 10 days, as police continue investigations and he receives medical treatment.

Magistrate Daisy Mutai of the Kibera Law Courts issued the ruling on Thursday following an application by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP), which sought more time to complete inquiries into the case.

"The state has demonstrated good faith in its application, as there exist compelling reasons for the continued detention of Kalombotole," ruled Magistrate Mutai.

The OCS Kilimani Police Station has been tasked with overseeing his custody during this period.

The court also directed that Kalombotole's lawyer be granted unrestricted access to visit him at any time during his stay at the medical facility.

Medical reports submitted by the ODPP, through State Counsel Gikui Gichuhi, revealed that Kalombotole is suffering from chronic type 2 diabetes and epilepsy, and has been experiencing seizures due to inconsistent medication.

A medical report by Dr Silvanos Wabule, a consultant at Roya Hospital, confirmed that Kalombotole was admitted to KNH on December 11, 2024, and discharged two days later, but remained in the ward due to administrative delays.

Following his discharge, he was escorted to Nairobi Women's Hospital by Kilimani Police officers for further care, and has since been under close medical supervision.

He is currently receiving insulin treatment for blood sugar control and medication to manage seizures and nausea, according to the medical records presented in court.

The submissions followed a previous court order instructing KNH and Nairobi Women's Hospital to submit detailed medical information to help determine whether the suspect was fit to remain in custody or required continued medical supervision.

"The reports will help the court determine whether the suspect is fit to remain in custody or requires continued medical care," said Magistrate Mutai.

Kalombotole is the main suspect in the murder of Edward Maingi Ndegwa, a patient who was found dead in his hospital bed on July 17, 2025, just five days after being admitted to Ward 7B, Level C at KNH.

The case has raised concerns over hospital security and patient safety in public health institutions.

According to an affidavit filed by Corporal Benard Muange of the DCI Homicide Bureau, the circumstances surrounding the murder remain suspicious and unresolved.

Investigators are still working to verify Kalombotole's true identity and had initially sought a 21-day custodial detention to complete forensic and witness-based investigations.

Kalombotole will remain at Mbagathi Hospital until further court directions are issued based on medical evaluations and investigative progress.