More than a decade after Agnes Wanjiru, a 21-year-old mother, was killed in Kenya, allegedly by a British soldier, a Kenyan court has issued an arrest warrant for a UK national. If there is an extradition, it would be the first time a serving or former British soldier is sent abroad to face trial for the murder of a civilian – a move her friends would welcome.
On the night she went missing on 31 March 2012, Agnes begged her childhood friends Friend A and Friend B to join her. Both were new mothers wanting to enjoy a night out. Agnes, however, would never return home.
After spending time at local bars, Agnes was last seen leaving with a white man. Her body was found almost three months later, igniting outrage and demands for justice as allegations surfaced implicating British soldiers stationed in Kenya.
A Kenyan judge concluded an inquest in 2019, suggesting Agnes was murdered by one or two British soldiers. This revelation fueled suspicions across the community about military personnel involved in the incident.
Momentum increased in 2024 when reports highlighted the British Army's lack of accountability for their soldiers' actions abroad, including cases of sexual exploitation. This culminated in new investigations revealing ongoing misconduct within the military base.
On 16 September, the Kenyan court's action was hailed as a significant step toward justice for Agnes and her family. However, legal experts caution that the extradition process may face significant challenges.
Agnes's niece, Esther Njoki, is leading efforts to raise awareness and support for the family through fundraising initiatives, emphasizing the need for justice and financial security for Agnes's daughter.
As calls for justice continue, Agnes's friends remain resolute, insisting that the British Army cannot ignore this tragic case any longer as they seek accountability for their friend's death.
