Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) Renson Ingonga has ordered the National Police Service (NPS) and the Independent Policing and Oversight Authority (IPOA) to swiftly investigate the recent incidents. The directive, issued on Sunday, December 29, 2024, requires the two agencies to submit their reports within three days, by January 1, 2025.
Ingonga expressed alarm over the alarming rise in abductions, which have left many families in distress, particularly after three individuals Bill Mwangi, Peter Muteti Njeru, and Bernard Kavuli were reported missing. While investigations continue, the whereabouts of six individuals remain unknown. In his statement, Ingonga emphasized the urgency of the matter, referencing the constitutional duty to protect citizens’ fundamental rights, including the right to life, security, and freedom. He reminded both the police and IPOA of their responsibility to swiftly act on these cases, with the expectation that updated findings will be submitted within the given timeframe.
The DPP’s directive comes at a time when public concern is growing over the issue, with many fearing that state agencies may be involved in these incidents. However, Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, has vehemently denied these allegations. On Thursday, Kanja dismissed claims linking the police to the abductions, assuring the public that no police station in Kenya is holding any of the reported abducted individuals. Kanja reiterated that while Kenya is a democracy that protects freedom of expression, the right to freedom must be exercised responsibly.
Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen also urged families whose loved ones have been abducted to report their cases to the police, ensuring accurate details are provided to aid investigations. Murkomen pledged government support to the police in uncovering the truth behind the disappearances.
On the other hand, IPOA Chairperson Issack Hassan announced that rapid response teams have been deployed to areas affected by the abductions, including Embu, Kajiado, and Nairobi. These teams are tasked with gathering information on the incidents and determining whether police involvement is connected to the disappearances.
The DPP’s call for swift action highlights the growing urgency surrounding this issue, with pressure mounting for law enforcement agencies to resolve the cases and ensure justice for the victims and their families.
