The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched a probe into the fatal shooting of Dr Victoria Nthunya Mutiso, a prominent clinical psychologist and mental health researcher. The incident occurred on the morning of July 29 in Nairobi's Upper Hill area.
Preliminary investigations suggest Dr Mutiso was shot under unclear circumstances after requesting an online taxi service. Witnesses reported that a gunman on a motorbike intercepted the taxi and opened fire, killing her instantly.
According to the DCI, another vehicle blocked the taxi before the attack. Police and Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) teams quickly secured and processed the scene, collecting forensic evidence and interviewing witnesses. The victim was taken to a medical facility, which investigators also visited as part of ongoing inquiries.
About Dr Victoria Mutiso
Dr Mutiso served as the Head of Research at the Africa Mental Health Research and Training Foundation (AMHRTF). Her work focused on child and adolescent mental health, youth interventions, and adapting mental health toolkits for marginalized communities across Kenya. She also co-led the NIHR-funded HOPE Project addressing homelessness and severe mental illness, and co-authored Your A-Z on Mental Health with Professor David Ndetei.
Context and Related Incidents
The location of the attack, near Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH), is close to where Kasipul MP Ong’ondo Were was assassinated in a similar targeted attack about a year ago. The area has also been linked to other violent incidents, including the abduction and assault of activist Davis Lichuma in June.
Call for Public Assistance
The DCI is appealing to anyone with information that could aid the investigation to report to the nearest police station or contact their toll-free line at 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp 0709 570 000.
