By Murugi Ndwiga, Eastern Region
A dark cloud of shock and sorrow hung over Riandu Location in Embu County on Monday after a 21-year-old woman allegedly gave birth and attempted to dispose of her newborn in a shocking act that has left the local community stunned.
The young woman, identified as Fiona Marigu Muriuki, was arrested in Siakago, Mbeere North Sub-county, after residents discovered a lifeless infant concealed inside a bag she was carrying. Authorities confirmed that the baby was already deceased at the time of discovery.
According to Riandu Location Chief Julieta Cathy, the incident came to light after concerned residents noticed the woman walking with difficulty and behaving suspiciously.
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“She looked sickly and was trying to hide the bag she carried,” said Chief Cathy. “Residents grew concerned and informed local authorities.”
Fiona, reportedly working as a house manager in the area, had earlier that morning complained of severe ear pain to her employer.
“I received a call from a local shop owner who employs the young woman,” Chief Cathy explained. “She told me that Viona woke up saying she had a terrible earache. The employer gave her money to visit a hospital.”
Instead of seeking medical care, however, Viona allegedly changed direction and headed toward a secluded area in a nearby farm. That is where she is believed to have committed the harrowing act.
“Some residents saw her diverting from the road and acting strangely,” Cathy said. “They followed her discreetly, and upon confronting her, they insisted on seeing what was in the bag. To their horror, they discovered the body of a newborn baby.”
Following the disturbing discovery, Fiona was detained by residents and later handed over to police officers who arrived promptly at the scene. She was immediately taken to Siakago Police Station, where she remains in custody.
During preliminary questioning, Viona reportedly admitted to the act, citing desperation, fear of stigma, and lack of support as her primary motives.
“This is a tragic case,” said Chief Cathy. “She confessed that she didn’t know what to do. She was overwhelmed and made a desperate, irreversible decision.”
The body of the infant has since been taken to Siakago Level 4 Hospital Mortuary for post-mortem examination to determine the exact cause and time of death. Authorities say the results will be key in guiding the legal process going forward.
The incident has sent shockwaves throughout the Riandu community, where many residents expressed both grief and outrage. Some have called for harsher penalties, while others are urging for more robust support systems for young, vulnerable women.
“This isn’t just about punishment. It’s a wake-up call about what happens when young women are left to face pregnancy and motherhood alone,” said one local elder. “She may have committed a crime, but behind it is a story of pain, fear, and abandonment.”
Mental health professionals and social workers in the region are now emphasizing the need for improved access to reproductive education, maternal support services, and confidential counseling for women in distress, particularly those employed in domestic work far from home.
Police have confirmed that investigations are ongoing and that Viona will remain in custody until the case is fully examined. She is expected to undergo a psychological assessment as part of the investigation process.
As the community processes this deeply unsettling event, questions linger about what could have been done to prevent it and how to ensure no other young woman is ever pushed to such a desperate end.