Inquiry into Death of Agnes Wanjiru Amid Allegations Against British Soldier
The family of Agnes Wanjiru express frustration over prolonged investigation as Defence Secretary pledges support.
The family of Agnes Wanjiru, a 21-year-old woman reportedly killed by a British soldier in Kenya, has expressed discontent over the lack of progress in the investigation following a meeting with UK Defence Secretary John Healey.
Wanjiru's body was discovered in a septic tank at a hotel near a British Army base in March 2012, two months after she had been reported missing.
Recent statements reveal that a British soldier allegedly confessed to Wanjiru’s murder.
The soldier reportedly admitted his involvement and another soldier had informed senior officers of the incident at the time, but no subsequent actions were taken.
During the meeting, Healey reiterated his commitment to ensuring a resolution to the case, stating the UK Government's support for the Kenyan authorities in their investigation.
He plans to discuss the matter with Kenyan President William Ruto, emphasizing the importance of accelerating progress on the investigation.
Wanjiru’s family described the last 13 years as a profound ordeal, marked by trauma and a continuous struggle for justice.
They noted little progress since an inquest in 2017 concluded that Wanjiru had been unlawfully killed.
The coroner's report indicated that Wanjiru had died from stab wounds to her chest and abdomen, and while there were signs of physical assault, the state of her body made it difficult to ascertain if she was sexually assaulted.
In their statement issued after the meeting, the family acknowledged the discussions with Healy but highlighted their disappointment with the ongoing delays and lack of concrete developments in the case.
They called for decisive action from both the UK and Kenyan governments to ensure proper investigation, as they seek closure in the matter.
In a public statement, Healey expressed his humility in meeting Wanjiru’s family, praising their resilience over the years.
He confirmed that the UK will continue to assist the Kenyan investigation, which has included facilitating visits from Kenyan investigators to the UK to interview potential witnesses.
This incident continues to attract attention, reflecting broader concerns regarding accountability in military operations abroad and the treatment of cases involving foreign nationals affected by the actions of military personnel.
Wanjiru's body was discovered in a septic tank at a hotel near a British Army base in March 2012, two months after she had been reported missing.
Recent statements reveal that a British soldier allegedly confessed to Wanjiru’s murder.
The soldier reportedly admitted his involvement and another soldier had informed senior officers of the incident at the time, but no subsequent actions were taken.
During the meeting, Healey reiterated his commitment to ensuring a resolution to the case, stating the UK Government's support for the Kenyan authorities in their investigation.
He plans to discuss the matter with Kenyan President William Ruto, emphasizing the importance of accelerating progress on the investigation.
Wanjiru’s family described the last 13 years as a profound ordeal, marked by trauma and a continuous struggle for justice.
They noted little progress since an inquest in 2017 concluded that Wanjiru had been unlawfully killed.
The coroner's report indicated that Wanjiru had died from stab wounds to her chest and abdomen, and while there were signs of physical assault, the state of her body made it difficult to ascertain if she was sexually assaulted.
In their statement issued after the meeting, the family acknowledged the discussions with Healy but highlighted their disappointment with the ongoing delays and lack of concrete developments in the case.
They called for decisive action from both the UK and Kenyan governments to ensure proper investigation, as they seek closure in the matter.
In a public statement, Healey expressed his humility in meeting Wanjiru’s family, praising their resilience over the years.
He confirmed that the UK will continue to assist the Kenyan investigation, which has included facilitating visits from Kenyan investigators to the UK to interview potential witnesses.
This incident continues to attract attention, reflecting broader concerns regarding accountability in military operations abroad and the treatment of cases involving foreign nationals affected by the actions of military personnel.