Kenya’s police force has denied involvement in a surge of abductions targeting government critics, drawing widespread condemnation.
Multiple human rights groups have accused Kenyan security forces of illegal detentions since anti-government protests erupted in June and July.
Human Rights Watch pointed to a covert unit allegedly comprising officers from military intelligence and anti-terrorism agencies.
The National Police Service expressed “deep concern” over the allegations, distancing itself from the disappearances in a public statement.
Three young men, all in their early 20s, were reportedly abducted over the weekend in Nairobi and surrounding areas.
One of the victims, Peter Muteti, was forcibly taken by men outside a shop in Uthiru, witnesses told Citizen TV.
The group allegedly included a man in police uniform, heightening suspicions of official complicity in the disappearances.
Muteti and another victim, Billy Mwangi, had recently shared AI-generated images depicting President William Ruto dead.
The Independent Police Oversight Authority announced it is dispatching rapid response teams to the affected counties.
Human rights organizations have urged the government to locate the victims and either present them in court or release them.
Kenya’s National Commission for Human Rights reported that 74 people have been kidnapped since the protests, with 26 still missing.
Former Prime Minister Raila Odinga joined calls to end the abductions, condemning them as “primitive” and demanding justice.
Despite denying involvement, the police have not disclosed any progress in identifying those responsible for the disappearances.
Critics argue that the lack of action raises questions about the government’s commitment to upholding human rights and rule of law.
As tensions mount, the public awaits clarity on the mysterious disappearances and justice for the victims.
