Where Are They? Six Young Kenyans Still Missing After December Abductions

In recent weeks, six young Kenyans, allegedly abducted by state security officers, remain missing, prompting significant distress among their families as they prepare to usher in the new year.

Reports indicate that these abductions coincide with youth-led protests that emerged in June 2024, leading to widespread accusations against security agencies. The National Police Service has denied involvement in these incidents and has yet to provide any updates on the cases. These individuals, known for their active social media presence and vocal criticism of President William Ruto's administration, have drawn national attention.

During a recent event in Homa Bay County, President Ruto pledged to put an end to the ongoing abductions, suggesting the possibility of releasing those detained. He simultaneously warned against the misuse of social media, a stance that has been interpreted as an attempt to target dissenting online voices. In addition, the President and his allies have urged parents to guide their children in upholding the nation's moral standards.

According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), there have been 13 reported abductions in the past three months, with seven occurring in December 2024 alone. Since June 2024, a total of 82 abduction cases have been reported, leaving 29 individuals unaccounted for. Among those missing are Steve Mbisi from Machakos, Billy Mwangi from Embu, Peter Muteti from Nairobi, Bernard Kavuli from Nairobi, Gideon Kibet (alias Kibet Bull) from Nairobi, and Rony Kiplang’at from Kiambu.

Peter Muteti, aged 22, was last seen on December 21, 2024, when he was forcibly taken by armed men while purchasing groceries in Uthiru, Kiambu County. His parents, Barnabas and Doricate Njeru, have publicly appealed to President Ruto for assistance in their son’s release. In a similar situation, 24-year-old Billy Mwangi was abducted by hooded men the following day; his whereabouts have remained unknown since. His family has also reached out to President Ruto for help.

Another notable case is that of Bernard Kavuli, a 24-year-old journalism student who was kidnapped at a petrol station in Ngong town. His abduction is believed to be connected to his critical social media commentary on the government and discussions surrounding the post-election violence of 2007/2008. Additionally, Gideon Kibet, who was last seen attending a church service in Kikuyu, Kiambu County, was forcibly taken on December 25, 2024, leaving his family alarmed and without communication.

KNCHR Chairperson Roselyne Odede has raised concerns regarding the alarming increase in abductions, pledging that the commission is closely monitoring developments. The US embassy in Nairobi has also called for the release of those affected. On December 30, 2024, the High Court ordered the immediate release of six individuals believed to have been abducted by state agents.

However, Inspector-General of Police Douglas Kanja did not appear in court, sending representatives in his stead. Despite President Ruto's recent statements promising to address these incidents and urging the youth and parents to cultivate responsibility, the fate of the missing individuals from December continues to remain unknown.