The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has reported a worrying spike in abductions, with 82 people having been abducted since June 2024. Out of these, 29 individuals remain unaccounted for, raising fears of a deteriorating security situation.
In the past three months alone, 13 cases have been reported, with December contributing seven cases, of which only one person has been located. Six individuals remain missing, including:
- Steve Mbisi from Machakos,
- Billy Mwangi from Embu,
- Peter Muteti from Nairobi,
- Bernard Kavuli from Nairobi,
- Gideon Kibet alias Kibet Bull from Nairobi, and
- Rony Kiplang’at from Kiambu.
The abductions reportedly occurred between December 17 and 25.
KNCHR Chairperson Roselyne Odede expressed grave concern over the trend, warning that the nation risks sliding back to “dark days” when abductions were used to silence dissent. She called on the National Police Service (NPS) to fulfill its mandate of ensuring public safety, particularly given the broad daylight nature of the incidents, some of which were captured on CCTV.
“We wish to remind the NPS of its role in securing Kenyans from such violent acts. Noting that these abductions are happening openly with no arrests made, it is deeply troubling,” said Odede.
She urged Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to clarify who is behind the abductions and initiate investigations to apprehend the culprits.
Additionally, she called for the unconditional release or lawful presentation in court of those who may have been illegally detained.
In a statement on Thursday, IG Kanja denied any police involvement in the abductions, stating that no police station is holding any of the reported missing persons.
“The matter is under investigation by the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) and other independent bodies. We urge anyone with information on missing persons to report to the nearest police station,” said Kanja.
Odede announced that the commission would file for a Habeas Corpus to hold authorities accountable for the missing individuals. The writ requires that any person under detention be presented in court to determine the legality of their confinement.
She also reiterated the need for Kenya to ratify the International Convention for the Protection of All Persons from Enforced Disappearances.
“As a member of the Human Rights Council, Kenya must walk the talk and lead by example,” she asserted.
The mysterious abductions have sparked widespread outrage and fears of a resurgence of criminal cartels targeting innocent Kenyans.
The KNCHR and other civil society groups continue to pressure the government to take decisive action and ensure the safety and freedom of all citizens.
