This archive report was first published on 19 November 2019.
Tragic Discovery in Nanyuki ¶
On November 19, 2019, the bodies of Joyce Syombua, her husband, and their two children were found in a shallow grave in Makaburini, Thingithu area of Nanyuki, Kenya.
According to reports, the family had been missing for weeks, and their disappearance had sparked a massive search operation. The bodies were discovered after Major Peter Mugure, the husband, was arrested in connection with the murder.
Image: nation.co.ke Source: UGC
Family Dispute ¶
It is alleged that the couple had been involved in a bitter dispute over child maintenance. Joyce Syombua had won a court case in Nairobi, which ordered Major Peter Mugure to provide for their children.
However, Mugure had denied paternity of the children, prompting Syombua to seek a paternity test. The test revealed that Mugure was indeed the father of the children, and he was ordered to provide for their upkeep.
It is believed that Mugure's motive for the murder was to avoid paying child maintenance.
Allegations of Depression ¶
Colleagues of Major Peter Mugure have come forward to claim that he may have been suffering from depression due to a plane crash he was involved in during his training as a pilot.
However, these allegations have not been confirmed, and the investigation is ongoing.
Second Wife? ¶
It has also emerged that Major Peter Mugure may have been in a relationship with another Air Force officer, which could potentially make her a suspect in the murder.
Investigation Ongoing ¶
The investigation into the murder of Joyce Syombua and her two children is ongoing, with two suspects already in custody. Major Peter Mugure remains the prime suspect in the case.