Kenyan diaspora in mourning as Kericho woman is stabbed to death by spouse in UK

A Kenyan woman from Kericho County has died tragically in the United Kingdom after being stabbed multiple times by her partner in an incident that has shocked both the diaspora and her community back home.

Linner Sang, 39, who had relocated to the UK in late 2023 in search of greener pastures, was attacked inside her apartment in Reading on Sunday, September 7. Thames Valley Police confirmed the fatal assault, noting she was pronounced dead at the scene.

According to The Kenyan Diaspora Media, Sang had been working as a social care worker after leaving her teaching job at St Catherine in Kesses, Uasin Gishu County. According to reports, her 29-year-old partner, who had followed her to the UK as a dependent, is the prime suspect in the killing.

"While in Kenya she was a teacher at St Catherine, Kesses, and she went to the United Kingdom in late 2023. Her spouse, who is the suspect, followed her not long later as a dependent," a source told Kenyan Diaspora Media.

The couple is said to have endured a strained relationship that culminated in the tragedy. On September 3, Sang allegedly left the apartment after a heated argument. Days later, feeling uncertain about her future with him, she returned with a friend to collect her belongings. It was during this visit that another altercation broke out, ending with her being stabbed multiple times.

Neighbours reported hearing loud screams before rushing into the apartment, only to find Sang lying motionless. The suspect escaped through a window but was later arrested near a river, where he was allegedly attempting to take his own life.

Detective Chief Inspector Stuart May of the Major Crime Unit confirmed the arrest and assured the public there was no wider threat. "We are in the very early stages of this murder investigation, but we have made an arrest and are not currently looking for anyone else. There is no known threat to the wider public," he said.

The horrific death has triggered an outpouring of grief among Kenyans in the UK and at home. Many took to social media to express their condolences.

Chebet Ryan wrote on Facebook, "RIP to Linner Sang. This is so sad." Another user added, "Aki mapenzi wewe. I send my condolences to her family."

As investigations continue, friends and family are left mourning a woman who left home with hope for a brighter future, only for it to end in tragedy abroad.