Person of interest linked to murder of 16-year-old boy arrested in Samburu
By Kiprono Keileb, January 18, 2026Police in Samburu North Sub-County have arrested a person of interest following the killing of a 16-year-old boy in Tuum Location, an incident that has shocked residents and raised fresh concern over domestic violence in the area. The arrest was made by officers from Baragoi Police Station after a swift operation launched hours after the killing.
The case involves close family members and unfolded inside a home setting, turning an ordinary evening into a deadly encounter.
In a statement shared on X on Saturday, January 18, 2026, detectives confirmed the identity of the suspect and the victim, outlining where and how the incident happened.
“Law Enforcement Officers from Baragoi Police Station have arrested 30-year-old Daniel Tanapua, the prime suspect in the brutal killing of his 16-year-old nephew, Alpha Lemoosa, in Tuum Location, Samburu North Sub-County,” part of DCI’s statement reads.
Police said the incident happened shortly after the two had spent time together at home, highlighting how quickly the situation escalated.
“Preliminary reports indicate that the tragedy unfolded shortly after the two shared an evening meal. What began as a domestic disagreement quickly escalated into a violent confrontation, ending in the tragic death of the teenager,” the statement reads.
Officers who rushed to the scene described a grim discovery that confirmed the seriousness of the attack.
“When officers arrived at the scene, they found Alpha’s body lifeless in a pool of blood. Investigators recovered a blood-stained Somali sword believed to have been used in the attack. The body was subsequently transported to Baragoi Sub-County Hospital mortuary for preservation and post-mortem examination,” the statement reads.
Following the discovery, police moved quickly to track down the suspect, who had fled the area.
“A swift and coordinated manhunt was launched, with officers meticulously trailing the suspect. Tanapua was later arrested at his hideout, where he was found attempting to wash blood-stained clothes in a bid to destroy evidence.”
Detectives confirmed that the person of interest is now in custody as investigations continue, with the family and community waiting for justice.
“He is currently in police custody, undergoing processing, pending arraignment,” the statement reads.