Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Mohamed Amin appeared before the High Court following a court order requiring them to explain the disappearance of three men abducted in Mlolongo. The case, which has drawn significant public interest, involves the missing individuals Justus Mutumwa, Martin Mwau, and Karani Muema who were allegedly taken on December 16.
Justice Chacha Mwita had summoned the two senior security officials to provide clarity on the whereabouts of the missing men. In compliance, IG Kanja told the court that the reports of the disappearances were initially made at the Mlolongo and Athi River police stations. Upon receiving the reports, Kanja said he directed the DCI to investigate, assigning Assistant Inspector General Paul Wachira as the lead investigator.
“When that report was made, I directed the director of DCI to commence probe and leading investigator Paul Wachira, who is an assistant IG, is here before the court to give a progress report on the status of the investigations,” Kanja told the court.
Kanja further emphasized his commitment to upholding the law and respecting court orders, reassuring the court and the public that the police were not holding the three missing individuals.
“I confirm that we have none of the men in our custody. But I want to assure Kenyans that they are safe,” he stated.
Taking the witness stand, DCI boss Mohamed Amin echoed similar sentiments, affirming that investigations into the case were still ongoing. He informed the court that once the probe is completed, the findings and recommendations will be forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for further action.
“I also wish to state that the missing persons are not under the custody of the National Police Service. We have not arrested them, and they are not under our custody,” Amin said.
However, despite these reassurances, concerns remain among the families and the public regarding the fate of the missing men. Amin admitted that under the current circumstances, the authorities could neither produce their bodies nor prefer any charges.
The case highlights growing concerns over enforced disappearances in Kenya, with human rights groups calling for transparency and accountability from law enforcement agencies. The court proceedings are expected to continue as pressure mounts on the security agencies to resolve the mystery surrounding the three missing men.
