Man Wanted for Murder in Massachusetts Apprehended in Kenya After Daring Escape
In a gripping turn of events, a man wanted for murder in Massachusetts has been rearrested in Kenya after a daring escape from police custody. Kevin Adam Kinyanjui Kangethe, accused of killing his girlfriend and leaving her body in a car at a Boston airport, slipped away from police officers while awaiting extradition. After a week-long pursuit, Kangethe was finally apprehended in Embulbul, Kajiado County, on the outskirts of Nairobi.
The escape has raised suspicions about corruption within the Kenyan police force, which has long been plagued by allegations of bribery and misconduct. Many questioned whether the officers on duty that day had been bribed to allow Kangethe’s escape. As a result, the four officers who were responsible for his custody have been suspended pending disciplinary action and potential prosecution.
According to an official police report, Kangethe’s escape was orchestrated by a man claiming to be his lawyer, John Maina Ndegwa. Ndegwa approached the officers, requesting to speak with his client, and they agreed to his request. However, shortly after Kangethe was taken to an office to meet with his alleged lawyer, he managed to flee while Ndegwa was left behind. The officers gave chase but failed to catch him.
Kangethe, 40, had been detained while awaiting a ruling on whether he should be extradited to the United States to face first-degree murder charges in connection with the death of Margaret Mbitu. Massachusetts State Police revealed that Kangethe had left Mbitu’s body in a car at Logan International Airport before boarding a flight to Kenya. After three months on the run, he was finally arrested in a nightclub on January 30.
Interestingly, Kangethe claimed to have renounced his U.S. citizenship, according to an anonymous police official. If he had still been an American citizen, he would have been repatriated without going through the court process. However, the court approved a police application to detain him for 30 days while his extradition is being discussed.
The case revolves around the murder of Margaret Mbitu, a healthcare aide in Halifax. She was last seen leaving work on October 30 and was reported missing by her family. The investigation revealed that Mbitu had left her workplace with Kangethe and traveled to Lowell, where he resided.
The collaboration between Massachusetts officials and Kenyan authorities has proven successful in bringing Kangethe back into custody. It highlights the importance of international cooperation in apprehending fugitives and ensuring justice is served.
As this gripping saga unfolds, it serves as a reminder of the challenges faced by law enforcement agencies across borders. The pursuit of justice knows no boundaries, and the dedication and perseverance of those involved in apprehending Kevin Adam Kinyanjui Kangethe is commendable.
