The High Court has issued a stern warning to the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, and the Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) boss, Mohamed Amin, giving them a final opportunity to release four men who went missing in Mlolongo, Machakos County, in December 2024.
Justice Chacha Mwita, in his ruling, emphasized the urgency of the matter, stating that the police officers’ failure to comply with the directive would compel the court to take further legal actions. The four individuals, whose disappearance sparked public outrage and concern over human rights violations, were reportedly last seen in the Mlolongo area.
In addition to the immediate release of the missing men, Justice Mwita ordered the IG and DCI boss to personally appear in court on January 17, 2025, to explain the circumstances surrounding the disappearances. The directive underscores the gravity of the case and the growing concern over extrajudicial actions by state agencies, particularly the police.
The case has drawn considerable attention from both the public and human rights organizations, with calls for accountability and transparency in the handling of the matter. The disappearance of the men in Mlolongo has further fueled suspicions about police involvement in forced disappearances, a sensitive issue that continues to plague Kenya’s security agencies.
The families of the missing individuals have expressed frustration and fear, as they have been left in limbo regarding the whereabouts of their loved ones. They have demanded answers from the authorities and urged the government to take swift action to resolve the case.
The court’s decision to compel the police chiefs to appear in person represents a critical step in ensuring that justice is served and that the rights of the missing individuals are protected. The case is expected to continue drawing public attention as it unfolds in the coming days.
