The Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) now says that it has no evidence that the killer of the patient who was receiving treatment at the facility was from outside.
In a statement on Sunday, Kenyatta National Hospital acting CEO Dr William Sigilai said the DCI took charge of the case immediately after they were alerted of the incident.
The patient was found dead with a cut wound on the neck by a nurse who was on a routine morning check in the wards.
“On Friday early morning at approximately 6 am, during the nurses' ward rounds, Mr Kinyua was found with his face covered by a blood-stained sheet. Upon uncovering him, the nurse discovered that he was motionless, with a cut wound on his neck. The nurse immediately alerted her colleagues, security personnel, the attending doctor, and the hospital's management,” Sigilai said.
“The area was immediately cordoned off as a crime scene and the Directorate of Criminal Investigations was notified. The DCI responded promptly and has taken full charge of the investigation but at this point, there is no evidence that anyone walked in and committed the crime.”
The hospital said that it is fully complying with the authorities as investigations into the unfortunate incident continue.
He added that security has also been enhanced at the hospital to ensure the safety of all the patients that are being attended to, staff and visitors.
Sigilai said a post-mortem will also be conducted.
“The KNH management is deeply saddened by this tragic event and remains committed to transparency and accountability throughout the investigation process," he said.
“We assure the public that we are taking all necessary steps to prevent such incidents in the future. We urge the public to allow the DCI to conduct its investigations without interference and to refrain from speculation that may cause further distress to the family."
KNH said it has also provided psychosocial support to the family.
“Our team of psychologists and counsellors were mobilised to provide support to the family and to break the sad news to them," the hospital said.
“Recognising the profound grief and trauma experienced by the family, we have established a 24-hour helpline to offer ongoing psychological support. A second counselling session was held yesterday with a larger group of family members.”
