DCI ordered to probe singer Betty Bayo’s death

By Newsflash Writer

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has been ordered to investigate the death of popular Kikuyu gospel artist Beatrice Wairimu Mbugua, widely known as Betty Bayo, following concerns raised by her family over the circumstances surrounding her demise.

In a statement dated December 18, 2025, the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) said it received a formal complaint on December 9 from advocates representing Bayo’s immediate family. The complaint expressed suspicions over the singer’s sudden death and alleged that the family has been denied access to the official post-mortem report.

“The DPP has directed the DCI to conduct thorough investigations into the circumstances surrounding the death and to submit the file for review and appropriate action,” the statement read, noting that the directive is issued pursuant to Article 157 of the Constitution. The ODPP reaffirmed its commitment to carry out its mandate independently, fairly, and in strict accordance with Kenyan law.

Family disputes cause of death

Betty Bayo, 39, passed away on November 10, 2025, reportedly from advanced blood cancer, specifically acute myeloid leukemia, according to medical reports. However, her family has strongly disputed the official cause of death, arguing that she had no history of any underlying medical condition and had never shown symptoms consistent with the diagnosis.

Joyce Wairimu Mbugua, Betty’s mother, said the family remains in deep anguish over her daughter’s sudden passing.

“We cannot understand how our daughter, who never exhibited any illness, would just die mysteriously,” she stated. The family insists that the official medical explanation does not align with Betty’s health history and behavior prior to her death.

Represented by Omenke Andeje & Co. Advocates, the family formally petitioned the DPP, requesting that Betty’s body be exhumed to facilitate a proper post-mortem and inquest. The legal team argued that a thorough investigation is essential to determine the true cause of death and to address lingering suspicions of foul play.

Calls for transparency and justice

The family’s call for further investigation comes amid growing public interest in the circumstances surrounding the sudden death of one of Kenya’s most beloved gospel singers. Betty Bayo had built a reputation for her uplifting music and spiritual messages, and her death has left fans and the local music community shocked and saddened.

Legal observers say that the DPP’s directive for the DCI to probe the matter underscores the importance of transparency in cases where the circumstances of death are questioned.

The investigation will involve reviewing medical records, interviewing witnesses, and potentially conducting an independent post-mortem if the family’s request for exhumation is approved.

As of December 18, the ODPP confirmed that the matter remains under review and that all findings will be handled in accordance with the law. Meanwhile, fans and colleagues continue to mourn the loss of Betty Bayo, whose music touched countless lives across Kenya.