Police boss suspended after woman miscarries in custody

By Newsflash Writer

The National Police Service (NPS) has interdicted the officer in charge of the Rwanyambo Police Post in, Kinangop, Nyandarua County following a disturbing incident in which a female suspect, Milkah Wangari, reportedly suffered a miscarriage while in police custody.

The incident, which has triggered public outrage and an official investigation, is alleged to have occurred after the woman was denied urgent medical attention.

In a press statement issued on June 12, 2025, by the Office of the Inspector General, the NPS expressed deep regret over the incident, describing it as “unfortunate.”

The woman was being held at the Rwanyambo Police Post when she lost her pregnancy, sparking a probe by the Internal Affairs Unit (IAU) in coordination with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).

“To ensure a swift, impartial, and transparent investigation, the officer in charge has been interdicted with immediate effect,” the statement read. The NPS also reiterated its commitment to upholding the rule of law and human rights, promising further updates as investigations continue.

Senator demands swift action

Earlier on, Nyandarua Senator John Muhia Methu had formally called for urgent action following the incident. In a letter dated June 11, 2025, addressed to IPOA Chairperson Mr. Ahmed Issack Hassan, Senator Methu requested a comprehensive investigation into alleged police violations.

Read more: Ichung’wah heckled in Nyandarua

According to the senator, Milkah Wangari had been arrested at around 11:00 p.m. on allegations of stealing KES 9,000 from her employer, who owns a liquor business. While in custody, Wangari reportedly pleaded for medical attention due to complications related to her pregnancy but was not given the necessary care. This failure, the letter claims, led to her miscarriage.

“The gravity of these allegations and the constitutional rights of suspects in custody demand urgent attention,” Methu wrote. He urged IPOA to establish the facts and take disciplinary action against any officers found responsible for negligence or abuse.

DNA samples and oversight inquiries

State authorities have confirmed that DNA sampling of the involved parties may be necessary, as investigations delve deeper into the circumstances that led to the miscarriage.

IPOA is expected to lead an independent probe to ensure accountability and adherence to the constitutional rights of suspects.

The incident has ignited renewed debate over police conduct in Kenya, particularly in relation to the treatment of vulnerable detainees, including women and pregnant suspects.

While the NPS has pledged transparency and accountability, rights groups are calling for broader reforms in handling suspects in custody.

Wangari’s condition remains a subject of concern, with local leaders offering support to her and her family as they seek justice.