Nyeri family speaks out after Baby Shantel’s body found cut into pieces in pit latrine
By David Nthua, February 10, 2026Residents of Kianjogu village in Mathira, Nyeri County, are in shock and disbelief after a child named Shantel Waruguru, who had been reported missing, was found dead inside a pit latrine.
Speaking to the media on Tuesday, February 10, 2026, the family spokesperson Jackline Ruguru confirmed the grim discovery, as grief and anger swept through the village.
Ruguru struggled to hold back tears as she described the state in which Baby Shantel’s body was found.
“They had to slice her up. She is in very bad shape. I do not know what the mother will go through, because huyo hata si mtoto,” she said.
Ruguru added that what she witnessed was deeply traumatising, noting that the condition of the body made it difficult to comprehend that the victim was a young child.
The child’s disappearance had earlier triggered a frantic search by family members and neighbours, who held onto hope that she would be found alive.
That hope was shattered when the body was discovered, turning the quiet village into a scene of mourning and outrage.
Residents demand justice
Area residents have expressed growing fear, saying the killing has exposed serious safety concerns within the community.
Diana Labana, a Mathira resident, said the incident has left parents terrified.
“Sai ni Shantel, tulikuwa na mwingine juzi. Sasa tunashindwa, kwani nyinyi wanaume, tutapeleka wasichana wapi? Hatutazaa wasichana?” she asked.
Another resident, Lucy Wothaya, openly demanded swift action from authorities.
“Tunataka huyo kijana alifanya hiyo mambo, tumuone, tupate haki ya mtoto. Wuuuuuuwi!” she screamed.
Community member Tony Nyagah said the tragedy has shattered trust at the most basic level.
“We do not know where we will bring up our kids if the people who should be protecting them are the ones murdering our children. If you thought your kids were safe at home, the person meant to protect them could be the danger,” he said.
Police have since launched investigations into the killing, with residents calling for thorough and transparent inquiries.
As the family mourns Baby Shantel, the village remains united in grief, demanding justice and stronger protection for children.