Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has affirmed that he will comply with the court summons regarding the alleged disappearances of three individuals in Mlolongo, Machakos County. Kanja assured the public that he will present himself in court when required, underscoring that investigations into the case are progressing well and are currently at an advanced stage.
In a statement to the press, Kanja explained that the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) is working diligently to uncover the truth behind the disappearance of Justus Mutumwa, Martin Mwau, and Karani Muema, who were arrested in December 2024. The three men have been held beyond the constitutional limit, sparking public outcry and prompting legal action. The Inspector General emphasized that the police are committed to following the law, with instructions given to the DCI to expedite the investigations to ensure that anyone involved in the alleged unlawful detentions is arrested and charged.
“Whenever the time comes to appear in court, I will be there personally,” Kanja said. He also expressed confidence in the ongoing investigation, stating that his team is doing everything possible to address the issue of missing persons and bring those responsible to justice.
The case has drawn significant attention after Justice Chacha Mwita of the High Court directed Kanja and DCI boss Mohamed Amin to personally appear in court over the disappearance of the three men. The judge also demanded the men be produced in court, dead or alive. The ruling came after a legal petition was filed by the Law Society of Kenya (LSK) and others, highlighting concerns about the men’s extended detention without trial.
The matter took a turn when Kanja and Amin’s legal representatives claimed they were not served with the court orders as required by law. Advocate Paul Nyamodi, representing the police chiefs, argued that there was no proof of service, particularly regarding the electronic service of the summons. The petitioners, however, maintained that the summons were duly served through emails, which had been the primary method of communication with the IG and DCI.
The case now hinges on the validity of the electronic service of the summons, with Nyamodi questioning whether the email addresses used were the correct and last confirmed ones. Despite this, the court proceedings continue, and the public awaits further updates on the investigation and the appearance of Kanja and Amin in court. The unfolding developments have added fuel to ongoing concerns about police conduct and accountability in Kenya.
