Purkiss Extradition Hearing Slips to May 2027

The family of Agnes Wanjiru has rejected a new timeline for the extradition hearing of Robert James Purkiss, a former British soldier accused of her murder. The hearing, originally scheduled for November 2026, is now set for May 2027. Wanjiru’s niece, Esther Njoki, described the delay as completely unacceptable in a statement, noting that relatives learned of the change via the UK embassy without an official explanation.

The family said it had already raised funds and booked travel for the hearing, which was expected in three weeks. Njoki stated that the family has exercised patience for years but feels that patience is now being exploited. She added that Wanjiru deserves justice and her daughter, Stacy, deserves answers. The family is urging authorities to expedite the process, warning that the case will enter its 15th year without a trial.

Wanjiru disappeared in March 2012 after an evening at a hotel in Nanyuki, Kenya. Her body was recovered nearly three months later from a septic tank at the site. The 21-year-old mother suffered stab wounds to her chest and abdomen. She left behind a five-month-old child. A Kenyan inquest concluded in 2019 that she was unlawfully killed by one or two British soldiers.

Legal proceedings accelerated in 2025 when a Kenyan High Court issued an arrest warrant for a British national. Prosecutors presented evidence they claimed justified murder charges. Purkiss was arrested in the UK in November 2025. He is currently fighting extradition to face trial in Kenya, though he denies the allegation. His lawyers have indicated he intends to contest the transfer.

The 38-year-old former soldier appeared via video link at Westminster Magistrates' Court in February. He was further remanded in custody during that appearance. In 2025, then-British Defence Secretary John Healey met with Wanjiru's family during a visit to Kenya. He pledged government support for securing justice. The UK government has stated it remains committed to helping the family but will not comment on ongoing legal matters.

A UK court is expected to provide reasons for the hearing delay next week. The postponement pushes the key legal milestone into the following year. The family maintains that they have not been kept informed about proceedings that affect their lives. They continue to demand dignity and transparency from the authorities handling the case.