The Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, defended the integrity of police operations, stating that officers only arrest or detain individuals legally in legal facilities specifically in police stations.
Appearing before a parliamentary committee, Kanja refuted claims that the police engage in abductions or kidnappings.
“I made it clear that police don’t abduct or kidnap. We only arrest and detain in lawful facilities, specifically within police stations. After that, investigations begin immediately. Those meeting the criteria to be taken to court are charged, while others are released,” Kanja explained.
Addressing a parliamentary committee on Thursday, November 7, Kanja revealed that 22 of the reported abductees have been found alive, while 29 remain missing. Additionally, six victims were discovered dead.
“The National Police Service has recorded a total of 57 abduction and kidnapping cases nationwide from June 2024 to date. Twenty-two individuals have been found alive, 29 are still missing, and six victims were found dead,” Kanja stated.
He clarified that the police do not engage in abductions but conduct lawful arrests and detain suspects only in authorized facilities.
While the IG commented on the missing Member of County Assembly (MCA) from Wajir County, Yussuf Hussein Ahmed, the police boss denied knowing the whereabouts of the politician.
Kanja said investigations are ongoing and appealed to the members of the public for any information about the whereabouts of the Della Anole Ward MCA.
“After the report was made to the police, we have been carrying out our investigations and this case remains active. We have not gotten any additional information about the whereabouts of this honourable member of Wajir County,” Kanja said.
