29 People Still Missing as Police Deny Role in Anti-Tax Bill Protest Abductions
The National Police Service (NPS) has reported 57 abduction incidents since the start of youth-led protests on June 18, 2024, according to Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja.
Testifying before the Committee on Administration and Internal Security, the IG rejected claims that police were involved in the abduction and killing of Kenyans associated with the protests, stating that the police are always engaged in lawful arrests.
He referred to the highly publicized arrests of figures like activist Morara Kebaso, journalist Macharia Gaitho, and politician Jimi Wanjigi, emphasizing that law enforcement followed proper procedures during these arrests.
Out of the 57 abduction cases, the IG reported that 22 individuals have been found alive, 29 are still missing, and 6 have been confirmed dead.
“I have made it clear that the police do not abduct or kidnap; we detain suspects and begin investigations. Those who meet the criteria for court proceedings are charged, while others are released,” Kanja explained.
While acknowledging that the protests against the Finance Bill were meant to be peaceful, Kanja noted that some individuals took advantage of the situation to engage in violent acts and damage property.
As a result of the protests, Kanja mentioned that 1,552 individuals have been arrested, with law enforcement tracking them using CCTV footage.
The IG dismissed social media reports of police abductions as ‘propaganda’, affirming that the officers have been carrying out their duties with diligence.
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“Some of the suspects seen on CCTV were not immediately arrested as the police first gathered all the necessary evidence. Once complete, they were arrested and taken to court,” Kanja added.
Kanja also confirmed that investigations into the majority of missing persons cases are still ongoing, pending additional information.
He highlighted the case of Wajir MCA Yussuf Hussein, who has been missing since September 13, 2024.
“Following the report, we have conducted investigations, which remain active. We have yet to receive any new information regarding his whereabouts and continue to encourage the public to come forward with any relevant details,” he said.
These comments from Kanja come amid growing concerns over police brutality directed at individuals linked to the protests.
Online videos show police officers forcibly placing individuals into vehicles before speeding off to unknown locations. Some of these suspects later appear at police stations, while others disappear without a trace.
Moreover, the international community has expressed alarm over the recent abductions, urging police officers to adhere to the law when making arrests.
29 People Still Missing as Police Deny Role in Anti-Tax Bill Protest Abductions
