Kenyan Migrant Killed Fighting for Russia Shortly After Travelling for Work

A Kenyan man who travelled abroad in search of work has been reported killed while serving with Russian forces in Ukraine.

Documents sent to Kenyan officials indicate that 28-year-old Martin Macharia Mburu died on 27 November during an assault attributed to Ukrainian units. Mburu had left Kenya on 21 October after being offered what he believed was a legitimate driving job. 

His passport was reportedly found alongside the documents of a Nigerian man killed in the same incident. Soon after the news reached Kenya, Kirinyaga Central MP Joseph Gitari told Parliament that Mburu and another Kenyan, Peter Kimemia Kamanu, appear to have been sent into combat after only minimal preparation and despite having no military background.

The case comes amid rising concern over illicit recruitment networks. Earlier this year, Kenyan security agencies intercepted 21 people in Athi River who were allegedly being prepared for travel to Russia. Around the same time, a Russian national suspected of coordinating such activities was removed from the country. 

Moscow has denied running covert enlistment operations, saying recent deportations were routine and unconnected to military service. Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs says it is dealing with several cases of citizens who were deployed to the frontlines, with at least four already repatriated. 

Prime Cabinet Secretary Musalia Mudavadi has stated that more than 200 Kenyans are currently serving in Russian units, including some former members of Kenya’s security services. Officials say they are working with Moscow to establish a formal labour framework aimed at preventing exploitative recruitment and providing lawful employment routes.

Jordan has launched its own inquiry after two of its citizens reportedly died under similar circumstances. Authorities there have warned that online networks are enticing young men with promises of work and travel before directing them into Russian military service. 

Jordan says it has asked Moscow to stop enlisting its nationals and is pursuing those suspected of organising the schemes.