Woman dies by suicide after reported failed attempt to poison three children in Machakos

Detectives are investigating an incident in which a woman died after reportedly taking her own life following an attempt to poison her three children in Matungulu, Machakos County.

According to police, the incident occurred on April 25, 2026, in Munyuni Village, Kithuani Sub-location.

A 35-year-old woman, identified as Irene Ndinda Wambua, is reported to have administered a substance believed to be poison to her three children before taking her own life.

The children survived but were left in pain and admitted to the hospital, according to police and residents.

Police who visited the scene said the woman, a widow living with her children, was found inside her house, where she is reported to have taken her own life using a manila rope.

The children, aged 11, seven and five, are believed to have ingested a toxic substance before the incident.

The three were rushed to Kangundo Level IV Hospital, where they were receiving treatment on Saturday.

Crime Scene Investigation (CSI) officers processed the scene and recovered substances suspected to be toxic, including tick dip and other chemicals, which are being treated as exhibits in the ongoing investigation.

Investigators said they have launched inquiries to establish the circumstances and possible motive of the incident.

Neighbours said the woman had appeared distressed in recent days, a claim police noted as part of ongoing investigations.

Police said they would engage family members as part of the probe. The children were reported to be responding well to treatment in the hospital.

Police data indicate that cases of suicide have been rising, with up to five incidents reported daily.

The World Health Organisation links such cases to factors including unemployment, bereavement, academic pressure, legal challenges and financial strain.

Other cited factors include bullying, previous attempts, family history, alcohol and substance misuse, depression and bipolar disorder. The government says efforts are ongoing to address the issue.

In a separate incident, police in Kiganjo, Kiambu County, are investigating the death of a man whose body was found at Kiamwangi Trading Centre.

Police who visited the scene found the body of Lawrence Ngugi Kamau, 36, with visible bruises on the forehead and right hand.

It was established that the deceased was last seen socialising with friends in the area before leaving for home on Friday night.

His body was discovered on Saturday morning, and the cause of death had not been established.

The body was moved to the mortuary pending further investigations.