Homicide detectives have identified a man linked to the death of Kenyan gospel artist Rachel Wandeto as her regular taxi driver.
Detectives are examining potential financial connections as part of a broader inquiry into the circumstances surrounding her death.
On Wednesday, police sought individuals connected to the case while preparing to present the driver in court to request an extension for further questioning.
Investigators noted that he had previously driven her to various locations where she received money. They believe he knew about these transactions, and they are exploring whether this knowledge influenced the events leading to her death.
Police suspect that more individuals may be involved and are pursuing additional leads.
Detectives from the Homicide Unit arrested him in the Kasarani area on Wednesday, acting on intelligence and public reports.
DCI Director Mohamed Amin confirmed the arrest and announced that the man will be presented in court on Thursday for continued detention while investigations proceed.
Sources indicate that detectives are considering multiple explanations, including a longstanding financial grievance.
Investigators are also exploring whether any political context related to Wandeto’s support for the president contributed to the incident, alongside personal factors.
An investigator stated, “We see indications that she may have been targeted due to perceptions about her political activities, as well as potential personal disagreements with acquaintances.”
The Homicide Unit is now overseeing the case from the May 16 incident in Mwiki, Kasarani.
Preliminary findings suggest that Wandeto was walking home when she encountered three men who assaulted her with a flammable substance and set her on fire before fleeing.
She was initially hospitalized with severe burns covering about 75% of her body and later transferred to Kenyatta National Hospital, where she passed away on May 18.
Her body has been sent to Kenyatta University Mortuary for a postmortem examination and other procedures.
The incident has sparked public outrage and renewed discussions on political intolerance and gender-based violence.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, who visited Wandeto in the hospital, condemned the attack and urged for swift investigations.
He stated, “If there are speculations about a political motive behind this attack, it poses a serious danger to our country.”
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has also instructed the DCI to expedite investigations and ensure all involved are identified and prosecuted.
Earlier this year, Wandeto gained attention for tattooing President Ruto’s face on her chest with the slogan “TUTAM,” supporting his 2027 re-election bid.
Relatives mentioned that her political views created family tensions, including claims that she was asked to leave home due to political disagreements.
Both police and family members have suggested that those involved may have sought money or benefits they believed she received through her political connections.
