Police in Kirinyaga County have arrested an 18-year-old woman following the circulation of a disturbing video allegedly showing her attempting to suffocate her nine-month-old daughter with a pillow. The child has since been rescued with assistance from the Children’s Department, while detectives investigate the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Highlights
- An 18-year-old woman has been arrested in Kirinyaga County.
- A viral video allegedly shows her attempting to suffocate her nine-month-old daughter.
- The child was rescued through a joint effort involving police and the Children’s Department.
- The arrest followed investigations by DCI officers and other police personnel.
- Government agencies are expected to help establish the circumstances surrounding the incident.
Main Story
18-Year-Old Mother Arrested After Disturbing Video Circulates
An 18-year-old woman is in police custody in Kirinyaga County after a disturbing video allegedly showing her attempting to suffocate her infant daughter sparked public concern.
The recording reportedly shows the woman pressing her nine-month-old child against a pillow as the baby struggles.
She is also seen filming herself while making alarming statements about continuing the alleged act, describing it as a form of personal therapy.
The recording further contains remarks suggesting that children raised without fathers should not be allowed to live, raising additional concerns about the child’s safety.
Police Rescue Baby as Investigations Continue
Kirinyaga County Police Commander Anderson Njagi confirmed the arrest on Friday, November 6, 2026.
According to Njagi, the woman was arrested on Thursday night, November 5, following investigations involving officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and the police.
The child was rescued through a coordinated effort involving law enforcement officers and the Children’s Department.
The mother remains in police custody as authorities prepare for the next legal steps, including her expected arraignment in court.
Government Agencies to Establish What Happened
Police say investigations are ongoing to establish the circumstances that led to the incident.
Njagi indicated that authorities would work with other relevant government departments to establish the underlying factors and provide a clearer account of what happened.
He explained that the investigation was still active and that the public would receive further information once the relevant findings had been established.
The involvement of additional government agencies is expected to help investigators understand the wider circumstances surrounding the case.
Police Warn Against Child Abuse
The county police commander also reminded parents and guardians that they have a responsibility to protect children from violence, neglect and other forms of mistreatment.
He praised members of the public who shared information about the video, noting that their cooperation helped officers trace the suspect and secure the child’s safety.
The incident has renewed attention on child protection and the importance of reporting suspected abuse before vulnerable children suffer further harm.
Authorities are continuing with investigations as the rescued baby receives attention from the relevant child protection agencies.
Every child deserves safety, protection and the opportunity to grow up without fear. The rescue of the nine-month-old baby is an important first step, but the investigation must establish exactly what happened and ensure the child’s wellbeing remains the priority.
