Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested John Nderitu Mureithi, the main suspect in the murder of 25-year-old Joy Kanini Gathu, whose dismembered remains were discovered in Ngangarithi Estate in Nyeri County.

According to investigators, the suspect was arrested on the night of July 10, 2026, along the Nanyuki–Isiolo Road in Timau, Meru County, after an intelligence-led operation.Police said he was allegedly attempting to make his way towards Uganda.During the arrest, detectives recovered four mobile phones, including one believed to belong to the deceased.The devices have been secured as exhibits for the ongoing investigation.

DCI officers stated that their inquiries revealed a confrontation between the suspect and Joy inside his house on June 9, 2026, which allegedly resulted in her death.

Investigators further claim that the suspect dismembered the body using a hacksaw and disposed of the remains in different locations in an effort to conceal the crime.Joy’s family had earlier reported her missing.When her parents later visited the Nyeri mortuary, they were shown a torso lacking several body parts.

Although the family initially sought DNA confirmation, her father identified a birthmark on her chest, while her mother recognised one of the recovered legs through a distinctive mark.

The suspect had previously accompanied the family to report Joy’s disappearance but reportedly left the police station during the process and disappeared.His phone was later switched off, raising suspicion among investigators.DCI has indicated that the suspect is expected to appear in court on July 13, 2026, as detectives seek custodial orders to complete investigations.The agency also conveyed condolences to Joy’s family and pledged to conduct a thorough and impartial investigation to ensure justice is served.