Kenya has recently witnessed a series of abductions, sparking alarm among citizens and human rights organizations. These incidents have highlighted concerns about security and the protection of human rights within the country.
Abduction of Cartoonist Kibet Bull
On December 24, 2024, Gideon Kibet, known as Kibet Bull—a university student, social media influencer, and cartoonist—was reported missing after meeting with Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah at his office in Taj Towers, Nairobi. Senator Omtatah recounted, “Kibet left my office at around 4:30 PM, and shortly after, I noticed suspicious vehicles outside.”
Prior to his disappearance, men posing as police officers reportedly raided Kibet’s residence in Green Valley Estate near Egerton University in Njoro. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has denied involvement in his abduction, stating, “For avoidance of doubt, the National Police Service is not involved in any abduction.”
Abduction and Killing of a 13-Year-Old Girl in Moi’s Bridge
In early November 2024, the mutilated body of 13-year-old Linda Jerono was discovered near the National Cereals and Produce Board depot in Moi’s Bridge, Uasin Gishu County. She had gone missing after leaving her grandmother’s home to have her hair done. This tragic event marked the ninth such incident in the area within a year. Governor Jackson Mandago condemned the act, stating, “I will personally work with security agencies and see to it that the network is cracked open and those involved are brought to book.”
Abduction of Ugandan Opposition Figure Kizza Besigye
In November 2024, prominent Ugandan opposition leader Kizza Besigye was reportedly abducted in Nairobi and subsequently appeared before a military court in Kampala. His wife, Winnie Byanyima, expressed doubts about the possibility of justice, stating, “I do not believe he will get justice.” Aml condemned the abduction, describing it as part of “a growing and worrying trend of transnational repression.”
Abduction and Repatriation of Turkish Nationals
In October 2024, four Turkish nationals residing in Kenya as refugees were abducted by armed men in Nairobi. They were later repatriated to Turkey at the request of the Turkish government. Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei stated, “Kenya acceded to this request on the strength of the robust historical and strategic relations anchored on bilateral instruments between our respective countries.”
Disappearance of Two Men in Bomet County
In December 2024, two men, Kevin Kiplangat and Dominic Kipng’eno, were abducted by masked gunmen along the Mai Mahiu Road. Their families have since been seeking answers from the government regarding their whereabouts. Witnesses reported that a Subaru vehicle with armed men fired at their car, leading to their abduction.
These abductions have raised serious concerns about security and human rights in Kenya, prompting calls for thorough investigations and greater accountability from authorities.