The suspect was arrested on Monday at around noon following investigations into the death of the 20-year-old education student, who was also widely known among fellow students and friends as Sabina.
Authorities said the arrest came shortly after the body was positively identified by the deceased’s father, Richard Riang’a Kiage. Before the identification, the body had initially been recorded as unknown.
Police indicated that investigations are ongoing as detectives work to establish the circumstances surrounding the student’s death and the suspect’s alleged involvement in the incident.
The tragic death of the university student sparked anger and grief among students, prompting large demonstrations within Bondo town after news spread about both the arrest and confirmation of her identity.
According to police reports, approximately 700 students participated in the protests, with demonstrators marching peacefully through sections of the town while calling for swift justice and thorough investigations into the killing.
Some students carried placards and chanted slogans demanding accountability and improved security for learners around the university environment.
The demonstrations remained largely peaceful, although security officers were deployed to monitor the situation and maintain order.
The death of Alice Riang’a has sent shockwaves across the university community, with fellow students expressing fear and concern over rising insecurity affecting young people and students in particular.
Leaders within the institution and local community members have also called on investigative agencies to ensure the case is handled transparently and that those responsible are prosecuted according to the law.
The arrest of the Tanzanian suspect now places the case at the centre of public attention in the region, especially given the growing pressure from students and residents seeking answers over the circumstances that led to the young woman’s death.
Police have not yet disclosed additional details regarding the suspect’s relationship with the deceased or the possible motive behind the killing.
However, investigators are expected to continue gathering evidence and recording witness statements as part of the ongoing inquiry.
The case has once again highlighted concerns over student safety in university towns, where incidents involving violence, disappearances, and insecurity have occasionally triggered public concern and calls for stronger protection measures.