56 Victims Rescued from Human Trafficking Network in Embakasi

The Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) of the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have today arrested two suspected human traffickers in Embakasi, Nairobi.

The suspects, aged 20 and 30, are allegedly involved in the trafficking of individuals for exploitation purposes. The operation, which took place in the Tasia area of Embakasi, resulted in the rescue of 56 victims including nine minors and 47 adults. The rescued individuals were taken to Embakasi police station for protective custody, while the suspects were transported to Muthaiga police station for processing before their arraignment.

This successful intervention highlights the ongoing efforts to combat human trafficking in Kenya, a crime that violates fundamental human rights and often involves the exploitation of vulnerable individuals through forced labour or sexual exploitation. Human trafficking, as defined by Kenya's Counter-Trafficking in Persons Act of 2010, encompasses the recruitment, transportation, transfer, harbouring, or receipt of persons for exploitative purposes.

The act criminalizes various means of exploitation, including threats, force, coercion, abduction, fraud, deception, and abuse of power or vulnerability. Importantly, the law also prohibits any form of payment or benefit given to obtain a victim's consent for exploitation. DCI Director Mohamed Amin has praised the swift action of his officers and reaffirmed the department's commitment to fighting human trafficking and protecting vulnerable groups.

“The victims were taken to the Embakasi police station for protective custody while the suspects were escorted to the Muthaiga police station for processing pending arraignment,” Says Amin.

He emphasizes the importance of public cooperation in reporting suspicious activities. Kenya's geographical location has made it a target for traffickers attempting to use the country as a transit point for their illicit operations. Factors such as poverty, unemployment, and vulnerability contribute to the persistence of trafficking.