Kenyan University Student Held in Saudi Arabia Rescued

Diana Chepkemoi, the Kenyan woman who was being held by her Saudi Arabian employer against her will has finally been rescued following a public uproar.

On Saturday, Kimilili MP Didmus Barasa said he contacted Labor CS Simon Chelugui who confirmed that Diana was rescued and taken to hospital for treatment, adding that a medical assessment was being undertaken to ascertain her suitability to fly.

“A physical visit to the hospital has been arranged tomorrow by our commercial attaché to ascertain her health condition. The medical assessment being undertaken will also confirm suitability to fly something that is running concurrently with her exit visa processing,” said Barasa.

This came after photos of a frail-looking and sickly Diana went viral on social media, with Kenyans calling for her rescue.

Her sister Lorrain Cheptoo told a local media that Diana, a student at Meru University, was being held by her Saudi employer who denied her medical attention after she fell ill.

Diana, 21, traveled to the Gulf state last year in search of greener pastures after deferring her studies at Meru University due to financial problems.

Susan Makungu, the agent who facilitated Diana’s travel and employment in Saudi Arabia, said it was hard to rescue her since she was working for a “high-profile” individual.

“Diana told me she is sick and has lost a lot of weight, and I made plans with our partners in Saudi Arabia. Diana’s case is taking long because I am told she works for a high-profile individual and the authority there are scared to access the home,” she said.

“I am ready to pay the air ticket, I am waiting for foreign affairs and the Kenyan embassy to go to the house and give her an exit. She is not lying she is speaking the truth, she is sick and they are mistreating her.”