Grief and anger continue to deepen following the death of Jaramogi Oginga Odinga University of Science and Technology (JOOUST) student Alice Riang’a, whose body was found in Bar Kowino Forest, Bondo, Siaya County, days after she was reported missing.
Alice, a second-year Bachelor of Education student, had been reported missing before her body was discovered by women collecting firewood, sparking shock within the university community and her home area.
Police later moved the body to Bondo Sub-County Hospital mortuary, where a post-mortem was conducted as investigations into her killing continue.
A close friend, Lencer Odhiambo, has shared a deeply emotional message, describing the pain of losing someone she considered very close and the difficulty of coming to terms with her death.
“I can't believe you're gone this soon darling, your death has left us with a big gap that no-one can fill, I can remember how excited you were the day you turned 20 but you haven't been able to enjoy it,” she said.
She expressed regret over not being able to reach her friend before her death and questioned the circumstances surrounding her disappearance.
“I don't know how to explain this but you could have at least called or texted just to inform us where you were going, I pray you find justice darling, am so sorry that I have failed you as your best friend, the one you trusted, the one you always find comfort in, I don't know if I'll really heal on this, I love you so much darling, may your soul rest in peace,” she added.
Lencer also took issue with online comments circulating about Alice, urging people to respect the dead and avoid speculation.
“Those that are talking… she's gone and gone. If you think she was after money or what, for your information, she's from a well-off family, so don't think every girl who's killed is just because of money,” she said.
She added that such remarks were painful to the family and friends already struggling with grief.
“At least you should let her rest in peace. As for your comments, keep them for yourselves please, it really hurt to see your negative comments. No one knows about their tomorrow. May your soul rest in peace Sabby, you'll forever remain in our hearts.”
According to police reports, Alice’s body was discovered in the forest before being transferred to the mortuary for examination.
A post-mortem later established that she died from blunt force trauma to the head, with indications of sexual assault also reported.
Investigators have since arrested a suspect described as a Tanzanian national and gold dealer, as they continue to piece together her final movements.