Witnesses at the busy retail outlet reported that the woman was apprehended by store attendants after she was spotted concealing goods and attempting to leave without payment.
Upon being confronted, she reportedly became emotional and insisted that she had no control over her actions, claiming she was under the influence of unseen spiritual forces.
The incident quickly drew attention from shoppers and bystanders, with some recording the confrontation on their phones.
In the widely circulated footage, the woman is heard pleading with staff and onlookers, repeatedly blaming “evil spirits” for the alleged theft.
Her statements sparked mixed reactions, with some expressing sympathy while others dismissed the claims as an attempt to evade responsibility.
Security personnel at the premises intervened and later handed the suspect over to police officers from the Kasarani division.
Authorities confirmed that the woman is being held pending further investigations and possible arraignment in court.
Retailers in the area have raised concerns over increasing cases of shoplifting, urging for stricter surveillance and enforcement measures.
However, the unusual nature of the suspect’s defence has also reignited public debate around mental health, spiritual beliefs, and accountability in criminal conduct.
Legal experts note that while personal beliefs may be presented in mitigation, they do not absolve individuals from criminal liability under Kenyan law.
The case is expected to proceed through the justice system, where the court will determine the weight of her claims against the evidence presented.
The incident highlights the unpredictable nature of petty crime cases and the complex human stories that often accompany them.
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