How Nakuru became a paradise for serial killers

Suspected serial killer Ezekiel Sakwa escorted by Plain cloth police officers at Molo Law courts on August 20, 2024. [Kipsang Joseph, Standard]

A recent spate of killings targeting women and girls in Nakuru County has evoked memories of serial killers who previously caused fear among residents.

The arrest of Ezekiel Sakwa, a teenager who confessed to the killing of four women, citing rejection, brought back the memories of other self-confessed serial killers in the county.

Rongai Sub-County Police Commander Wilberforce Sicharani said the suspect was arrested on August 18, 2024, following information from residents.

Sakwa is being held in police custody after investigators requested a Molo court for more time to piece together evidence of his case.

However, his arrest has brought memories of serial killers who have previously preyed on women in Nakuru.

In 2010, Philip Onyancha confessed to the police that he killed 19 women, mainly prostitutes, and drank their blood. Onyancha is serving a 12-year jail term.

Onyancha's said he had been recruited into a cult by his teacher who told him to kill 100 people and drink their blood for good fortune.

On being arraigned, it emerged that he had two other cases pending at the High Court. Onyancha is serving time at Kamiti Maximum Prison.

In June 2022, another incident of murders targeting women was reported in Mawanga estate in Nakuru. According to police records, six women were raped, killed and their bodies set on fire.

The incidents, which occurred back-to-back within two weeks, left a chilling effect on residents, most of who have now fled to safety.