The family of Agnes Wanjiru, a Kenyan woman who was killed after a night out with British soldiers in 2012, has urged the UK government to ensure the suspect is arrested and extradited to face trial in Kenya. British Defence Secretary John Healey met with Esther Njoki, Wanjiru’s niece and spokesperson for her family, in a meeting described as “crucial” by Njoki.

Wanjiru’s body was found in a septic tank in Nanyuki town, north of Mt. Kenya, weeks after witnesses reported she was seen leaving a bar with British soldiers. The Kenyan High Court issued an arrest warrant for a British national in September on charges of murdering Wanjiru near a British army training ground. Prosecutors have stated that an extradition request will be launched.

Njoki emphasized the impact of Wanjiru’s death on her family, stating that it has “left a permanent scar” and that the years of silence, frustration, and trauma endured while seeking justice have been traumatic. Healey pledged support for the family, saying that the UK government will continue to support the Kenyan investigation and secure a resolution to the case.

The UK has approximately 200 military personnel permanently based in Kenya, with most involved in training over 1,000 Kenyan soldiers annually before their deployment to Somalia to combat al-Shabab. The British government invests over 1.1 billion Kenyan shillings ($9.6 million) annually into this partnership. However, concerns have been raised by Kenyans regarding the treatment of local residents and the environment by British forces in their training ground.

A British soldier was arrested in Kenya in June after being accused of rape, prompting the Ministry of Defence to reiterate its commitment to ensuring that all personnel understand the importance of respecting local laws and customs. The ministry stated that it will have “zero tolerance for unacceptable behaviour” and that all personnel must complete mandatory training and attend compulsory briefings on conduct.

The meeting between Healey and the Wanjiru family marks a significant step towards resolving the case, with the family seeking justice and closure after years of waiting. The UK government’s support for the Kenyan investigation and its commitment to securing a resolution to the case are crucial in bringing peace to Wanjiru’s grieving family.