Nairobi police have placed a woman in custody while they look into the sudden passing of Dr Job Obwaka, a well-known gynaecologist and former leader at Nairobi Hospital. Beatrice Wangari, 45, was the last person with the 83-year-old doctor when he collapsed at her apartment in Kitengela on May 1.
According to details shared in court, Wangari first met Dr Obwaka back in 2015. He was 73 at the time, and she was 35. Their paths crossed again on that Thursday afternoon when he drove himself from Nairobi to visit her place in the Milimani area of Kitengela. The two spent time together, had a meal she prepared, and grew close in the master bedroom.
Not long after, Wangari noticed something was wrong. Dr Obwaka lay unresponsive on the bed. She quickly called her neighbours for help. Together they reached out to his personal doctor and called an ambulance. Paramedics rushed him to Nairobi Hospital, but he was pronounced dead on arrival.
At the time of his death, the respected doctor was 83 while Wangari was 45. She has remained in custody since her arrest. A Kibera court recently ordered her detention for another 10 days as officers wait for postmortem results and continue their work. Detectives say they are examining whether poisoning played any role in what happened at the residence.
Dr Obwaka built a strong name for himself over decades in women’s health. Many in the medical community remember him as a dedicated professional who held senior positions at Nairobi Hospital, including board chair. His passing comes weeks after he faced some public scrutiny over hospital matters, adding layers to the story that friends and colleagues are still trying to understand.
Wangari’s lawyer told the magistrate that his client did everything possible to save the doctor. He stressed that Obwaka drove to see her, enjoyed the meal, and rested in her home. When trouble started, she acted fast by getting neighbours and emergency services involved. The lawyer also pointed out that the doctor did not pass away inside the house but while being transported to the hospital.
Investigators from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations have been gathering statements and evidence. An affidavit from one officer mentions concerns about possible poisoning at the Kitengela home. Toxicology tests are expected to provide clearer answers in the coming days. The case returns to court on May 14 for mention.
This situation has drawn attention across Kenya, especially in medical and legal circles. People who knew Dr Obwaka describe him as someone who lived a full life and contributed much to healthcare. His family and the hospital community are mourning quietly while the investigation runs its course.
For Wangari, the days ahead will be difficult. She maintained that the relationship with the doctor had lasted many years, and she cared for him during his final hours. Neighbours in Kitengela recall seeing the ambulance that evening but had little idea of the bigger picture unfolding.
Health experts note that older adults can face sudden complications, particularly if they have existing heart conditions. Early reports suggest cardiac arrest may have been involved, but police want full confirmation before closing any angles.
Wangari’s side says she cooperated fully from the start. She stayed at the hospital after bringing him in and answered every question. Her detention allows time for deeper searches, including checks on the food and drinks shared that day.
