Defence minister 'doesn't know' if there was a cover-up in Kenya death

A defence minister has said he is unsure if there was a cover-up following the death of a young woman in Kenya, but stated he is "making damn sure" to find out.

Armed Forces Minister James Heappey has travelled to Kenya, where there has been growing anger among local leaders over the 2012 killing of Agnes Wanjiru.

Speaking to local media in the country, Mr Heappey was asked if he knew anything about a cover-up after her death, to which he replied: "I honestly don't know, to be completely honest with you, but I am making damn sure that I find out."

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Kenyan police are reopening the case into the death of Ms Wanjiru.

The 21-year-old's body was found in a septic tank at the Lions Court Hotel in the town of Nanyuki – close to the British Army Training Unit Kenya (BATUK) camp.

Chief of the General Staff General Sir Mark Carleton-Smith last week said he was "appalled" at claims involving British troops.

While speaking in Kenya, Mr Heappey added: "The UK has nothing to hide here – we want these investigations to be dealt with as quickly as possible.

"[Agnes Wanjiru] has a right to justice, her daughter has a right to justice."