The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has reported a worrying spike in abduction cases, with December 2024 marking a particularly concerning month. According to KNCHR, 13 abductions have been reported in the last three months, seven of which occurred in December alone. While one individual has been located, six others remain missing, sparking alarm among human rights organizations and families.
The six individuals reportedly abducted between December 17 and 25 include:
- Steve Mbisi from Machakos,
- Billy Mwangi from Embu,
- Peter Muteti from Nairobi,
- Bernard Kavuli from Nairobi,
- Gideon Kibet, also known as Kibet Bull, from Nairobi,
- Rony Kiplang’at from Kiambu.
This brings the total number of reported abductions since June 2024 to 82, with 29 individuals still unaccounted for to date.
A Worrying Trend
KNCHR Chairperson Roselyne Odede expressed deep concern over the trend, emphasizing the devastating impact on families and the broader implications for human rights. “The continued disappearances are a violation of basic rights. We are closely monitoring the situation and are engaging with relevant authorities to address this,” she said.
The Commission highlighted that abductions often leave families traumatized and grappling with uncertainty, adding pressure on law enforcement agencies to deliver answers. Civil society organizations have also called for urgent action, urging the government to ensure accountability and transparency in investigations.
Patterns and Possible Causes
While no clear patterns have been established, human rights groups suspect a range of motives behind the abductions, including criminal activities, political vendettas, and forced disappearances linked to security operations. Many abductions are reportedly executed in a coordinated manner, often involving individuals posing as law enforcement officers.
The situation underscores the urgent need for policy reforms and robust mechanisms to combat enforced disappearances. Observers have criticized gaps in Kenya’s legal and investigative frameworks, pointing to a lack of resources and coordination among agencies tasked with handling these cases.
Call to Action
KNCHR has called on the government to prioritize the resolution of the 29 unresolved cases while urging the public to remain vigilant and report suspicious activities. “Every effort must be made to locate these missing persons and bring those responsible to justice,” Odede affirmed.
As families await answers, the public is left grappling with the grim reality of abductions becoming a persistent threat. The responsibility now lies with authorities to restore safety and uphold the rights of all citizens.
