A Kenyan man wanted for murder in Massachusetts has been extradited almost a year after fleeing the U.S., authorities announced on Monday.
Kevin Adam Kinyanjui Kangethe is accused of killing his girlfriend, Margaret Mbitu. Her body was discovered in a car at Logan International Airport in Boston on October 31.
Kangethe left Nairobi, Kenya’s capital, on Sunday and will face murder charges at Suffolk Superior Court in Boston on Tuesday, according to Kenyan Director of Public Prosecutions Renson Ingonga.
“I want to emphasize my commitment and support to the United States, especially the prosecution team, as they move forward with the case,” Ingonga said on Monday.
The court had already issued an extradition order for Kangethe in July.
Kangethe, who gave up his U.S. citizenship, had a dramatic escape from a police cell in January after a visit from his Kenyan lawyer. Four police officers on duty at the time were disciplined, and Kangethe was arrested again a week later. His extradition case continued after that.
Mbitu, who worked as a healthcare aide in Halifax, Massachusetts, was last seen leaving her job on October 30. Her family reported her missing.
Investigators said Mbitu had left work and traveled with Kangethe to Lowell, Massachusetts, where he lived. Kangethe was later found with her personal belongings, according to prosecutors.
Authorities further explained that Kevin Kangethe’s possession of Margaret Mbitu’s personal items raised serious suspicions about his involvement in her death. This key evidence was highlighted during the extradition hearings in Kenya.
Kangethe’s attempt to flee justice by escaping police custody in January added to the complexity of the case. His escape, though short-lived, raised concerns about security measures in place and prompted disciplinary actions against the officers responsible.
Once back in the United States, Kangethe will face a formal trial where prosecutors are expected to present the evidence linking him to the murder of Mbitu.
The case has drawn attention both in the U.S. and Kenya due to the international nature of the crime and Kangethe’s attempt to avoid prosecution by fleeing to his home country.
Margaret Mbitu’s family, who had been anxiously awaiting justice for nearly a year, hope that his extradition will bring closure to the case and serve as a reminder of the close cooperation between Kenya and the U.S. in handling such serious criminal matters.
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