Patient Found Murdered at Kenyatta National Hospital, Police Launch Investigation

Nairobi, Kenya – July 17, 2025

Police have launched an investigation after a patient was found murdered inside a ward at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), the country’s largest referral facility. The victim, a physically disabled man whose identity has not been disclosed, was discovered dead with his throat slit in Ward Seven shortly after visiting hours ended on Thursday afternoon.

According to witnesses, an unknown assailant entered the ward and attacked the patient before escaping. The motive behind the gruesome act remains unclear.

“This tragic incident has deeply saddened us,” said Dr. William Sigilai, speaking on behalf of the hospital CEO. “Our thoughts and prayers are with the patient’s family during this difficult time.”

Senior officers, including detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), arrived at the scene and spent the afternoon gathering evidence. CCTV footage from hospital corridors is being reviewed in an effort to identify the suspect. As of Thursday evening, no arrests had been made.

This marks the second such murder reported at KNH this year. In February, another patient was found dead under similar circumstances in a separate ward. The unsettling pattern has raised concerns about hospital security.

In a statement, KNH management confirmed that the matter has been reported to the DCI and other relevant agencies. “We are fully cooperating with authorities to ensure that those responsible are brought to justice,” the hospital said.

The incident has reignited public calls for tighter security in medical facilities, particularly in public hospitals where vulnerable patients are often unattended during visiting hours.