A family in Kimilili, Bungoma County, is demanding answers after the mysterious death of 31-year-old Abigael Nafula, who was allegedly killed shortly after reuniting with her estranged husband, a Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) officer.
According to relatives, Nafula had separated from her husband late last year after their marriage became troubled. Family members claimed the relationship deteriorated after allegations that the officer was involved in an affair with a fellow soldier while stationed away from home.
Her sister, Lilian, said Nafula had relocated from Gilgil to Rongo in an attempt to rebuild her life away from the marital conflict. However, months later, the soldier reportedly reached out seeking forgiveness and asking for another chance to fix their marriage.
The two agreed to meet in Nakuru alongside their daughter, who was returning to boarding school. After spending time together and dropping the child at school, Nafula reportedly told her family that things had gone well and that her husband appeared remorseful.
That would be the last time they heard from her.
Days later, relatives became worried after her phone went silent. The husband allegedly gave conflicting explanations about her whereabouts, claiming she had suddenly left him while they were travelling.
The family continued searching until police later informed them that Nafula had been found dead in a hotel room bathroom. Initial reports suggested suicide after staff discovered her body with a cloth tied around her neck.
However, a postmortem reportedly revealed injuries inconsistent with suicide, including a broken neck.
The officer is said to have disappeared and has not publicly explained what happened that night. Nafula’s grieving family is now calling for speedy investigations and justice for their daughter.