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DCI launches investigations into gospel singer Rachel Wandeto’s death
19th May, 2026 03:04 PM
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Homicide Directorate has launched investigations into the murder of gospel artist Rachel Wandeto, who died after succumbing to severe injuries sustained during a brutal attack in Mwiki, Kasarani, Nairobi.
In an official statement on Tuesday, May 19, 2026, the DCI said preliminary reports indicate that the incident occurred on May 16, 2026, when the singer was walking home along 11th Street near Obama Road.
She is said to have encountered three men who assaulted her, doused her with a flammable substance, and set her on fire before fleeing the scene.
“The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Homicide Directorate has taken over investigations into the brutal murder of Rachel Wandeto, a gospel artist, who succumbed to severe injuries inflicted during an attack on May 16, 2026, in Mwiki, Kasarani, Nairobi,” the DCI statement reads.
“Preliminary investigations reveal that the victim was on her way home when she encountered a group of three men along 11th Street near Obama Road. The assailants reportedly assaulted her, doused her with a flammable liquid, and then set her on fire before fleeing the scene.”
According to the detectives, Wandeto was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital the same day, where she was admitted with severe burn injuries covering about 75 per cent of her body, adding that despite medical efforts, she passed away on May 18, 2026, while undergoing treatment.
“She was rushed to Kenyatta National Hospital the same day, suffering from approximately 75 per cent burn injuries. Unfortunately, she succumbed to her injuries while undergoing treatment at the facility on May 18, 2026,” the DCI stated.
Murder probe
DCI detectives have since taken over the case and say they are working to establish the full circumstances surrounding the attack as well as identify and apprehend those involved.
The agency condemned the incident, describing it as a heinous act of violence, and assured the public that the investigation will be conducted thoroughly, impartially, and without fear or favour. Authorities further pledged that anyone found responsible will face the full force of the law.
“Detectives are tirelessly working to uncover the full circumstances surrounding this heinous crime and to identify and apprehend all individuals involved in its planning and execution. The DCI unequivocally condemns all forms of violence, criminality, and intolerance that jeopardise the safety and sanctity of human life,” the DCI statement reads.
DCI has also urged members of the public with any information that may assist investigations to report to the nearest police station or use official anonymous reporting channels.
“Members of the public who possess any information that may assist with the investigation are encouraged to report at the nearest police station or anonymously through our 24-hour toll-free hotline at 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp at 0709 570 000,” the DCI statement reads.
