Kenyan prosecutors are initiating the extradition process for Kelvin Kangethe, a fugitive wanted in the United States for the murder of a woman found concealed in a car at Logan Airport.

Kangethe, arrested five days ago, appeared before a Nairobi court on Monday to face murder charges. The magistrate postponed the hearing to February 27, directing Kangethe's detention in police custody pending arraignment.

Prosecutors are optimistic about securing court approval to extradite the 40-year-old, accused of fatally shooting his girlfriend in November last year before fleeing to Kenya.

The family of the victim, Margaret Mbitu, traveled to Kenya seeking justice for their daughter.

Kenya and the US have an extradition treaty dating back to 1931, facilitating the surrender of individuals for prosecution or punishment for crimes committed.

If convicted of murdering Margaret Mbitu, Kangethe faces a potential life sentence without parole under Massachusetts law.

Kangethe's arrest on Valentine's Eve followed a police operation in the Ngong area, involving 11 officers who tracked him down based on public tips. He had previously escaped from Muthaiga Police Station triggering a widespread manhunt.