Records Trace Mysterious KNH Murder Suspect’s Movements From 2022 to 2025

Detectives are facing mounting pressure to ascertain the true identity of a man, known only as Kennedy Kalombotole, suspected of murdering two patients at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH). 

Despite the gravity of the accusations, Kalombotole’s background remains shrouded in mystery. With no known relatives, identification documents, or permanent address, authorities are struggling to piece together his history. A court has granted detectives additional time to investigate his origins, mental state, and physical health.

The core issue surrounding Kalombotole’s case lies in how he, an "urban destitute" unable to pay for services, gained repeated access to KNH, the country's premier referral hospital. Records indicate he first presented at KNH in November 2022 and was readmitted on 28 July 2023. He received treatment for diabetes and convulsions, accruing medical bills exceeding Sh700,000 despite lacking the means to pay.

The circumstances of his admission and subsequent readmission are subject to intense scrutiny. Questions arise regarding the protocols in place at KNH: How did an individual without proper documentation or social support bypass standard procedures and gain access to a facility where patients often face waiting lists and upfront payment requirements? Moreover, what allowed him to remain within the hospital long enough to become the prime suspect in two separate murders?

Following his discharge in August 2023, Kalombotole disappeared from official records for almost a year. His whereabouts during this period are unknown. He resurfaced on 13 June 2024, when KNH social workers arranged for his placement at a shelter for homeless and mentally challenged men, run by the Catholic Church outside Thika Superhighway. Staff at the shelter, speaking on condition of anonymity, reported that he was initially sociable and compliant with his medication. 

However, they noted his reluctance to discuss his past and his increasing demands regarding food, including refusing meals suited for diabetic patients. The shelter declined to readmit him after he left on 11 December 2024, citing his lack of qualifying conditions and disruptive behaviour. KNH's attempts to return him to the facility were unsuccessful, leaving the hospital with limited options. KNH officials say that the suspect was allowed to remain at the hospital, even after his formal discharge, pending guidance from investigating authorities.

It was during this extended stay that the first murder occurred. On 7 February 2025, Gilbert Kinyua, a patient suffering from a rare neurological disorder, was found dead in Ward 7B. His face was covered with a blood-stained sheet, and Kalombotole was identified as a suspect. No interrogation took place at the time, and the incident faded from public awareness. In response, KNH implemented enhanced security measures and urged the public to refrain from speculation during ongoing investigations.

The second murder, committed on 17 July 2025, bore chilling similarities to the first. Edward Maingi Ndegwa was discovered in the same ward, his throat slit and body covered in a bloodied sheet. This time, the incident occurred shortly after visiting hours, and Kalombotole was immediately taken in for questioning. Sources close to the investigation report that he is evasive during interrogations, often citing illness, but maintains a calm demeanour in court.

The lack of progress in identifying Kalombotole’s origins is further complicating the investigation. Despite public appeals and the circulation of his photograph, no relatives or acquaintances have come forward. This anonymity has hindered efforts to establish a comprehensive profile, leaving detectives reliant on fragmented hospital and shelter records. In court, Kalombotole’s lawyers requested he be returned to KNH, but the request was denied. He has since been admitted to Mbagathi Hospital for further evaluation.