Police Deny Abduction Claims as 29 Protesters Remain Missing in Finance Bill Unrest
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has refuted claims linking the National Police Service (NPS) to the abduction and disappearance of Kenyans involved in the ongoing youth-led protests against the Finance Bill. Appearing before the Committee on Administration and Internal Security, Kanja emphasized that police actions are strictly within legal bounds and denied accusations of abductions or extrajudicial killings.
Since the protests began on June 18, 2024, the NPS has documented 57 cases of abductions. According to Kanja, 22 of those reported missing have been located alive, 29 individuals remain unaccounted for, and six have tragically been confirmed dead.
“I’ve made it clear, police don’t abduct or kidnap. We detain suspects within police stations where investigations begin. Those found with sufficient evidence are arraigned, while others are released,” Kanja asserted, addressing public concern over the alleged forced disappearances.
The Inspector General dismissed reports circulating on social media suggesting that officers were involved in kidnappings, calling it “propaganda.” He cited incidents involving public figures such as activist Morara Kebaso, journalist Macharia Gaitho, and politician Jimi Wanjigi, which he argued were sensationalized, insisting that the arrests of these individuals were handled lawfully.
Acknowledging that the anti-Finance Bill protests initially had peaceful intentions, Kanja noted that a number of individuals exploited the protests to incite violence and vandalism. He revealed that the police have arrested 1,552 suspects linked to these disturbances, with some apprehensions made after being identified on CCTV footage. “Some suspects caught on CCTV weren’t arrested immediately. We took time to gather sufficient evidence before taking them to court,” he explained.
The IG also highlighted the case of Wajir MCA Yussuf Hussein, who has been missing since September 13, 2024, affirming that investigations are ongoing and calling on the public to provide any information that could aid in finding him. “We appeal to anyone with information on his whereabouts to come forward,” Kanja urged.
Meanwhile, videos surfacing online showing police bundling individuals into cars have fueled public outcry and raised concerns of police brutality. The international community has also called upon the Kenyan government to uphold human rights and exercise restraint in handling protesters. Kanja, however, reiterated that police officers are upholding lawful practices in managing the situation.
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Police Deny Abduction Claims as 29 Protesters Remain Missing in Finance Bill Unrest
