Five young men from Kenya, including a well-known cartoonist, have been located alive after going missing just before the Christmas holidays, as confirmed by family members and human rights organizations.
The country has been facing a disturbing surge in disappearances, with reports indicating that over 80 individuals have been abducted in the past six months. These abductions primarily appear to target critics of the government and are widely suspected to involve state security agents, though the authorities have not acknowledged any involvement.
The trend of abductions began in June 2022, coinciding with nationwide anti-tax demonstrations, and escalated in December when AI-generated images of the president in a coffin garnered public attention. The youth-led protests forced President William Ruto’s administration to retract several planned tax increases, significantly undermining his government’s authority.
Kibet Bull, recognized for his critical cartoon memes, announced his release on social media, expressing relief and excitement. He revealed he was dropped off in Luanda, approximately 370 kilometers from Nairobi, where he was last seen. Immediately following his release, he went out to celebrate.
Kibet’s mother expressed her overwhelming joy upon hearing his voice after his return, setting off a wave of celebration in the family. Alongside Kibet, 24-year-old student Billy Mwangi was also released, suffering visible trauma from his experience, as reported by local sources. Mwangi’s father expressed gratitude for his son’s safe return and noted that he required medical attention.
Additionally, Peter Muteti, 22, who had been seized in Nairobi, has been reunited with his family but is reportedly disoriented and reluctant to discuss the details of his ordeal.
Human rights advocates, including Amnesty International Kenya, welcomed the releases while urging the government to free all abductees and bring those responsible to justice. Recently, police officials denied any involvement in the abductions, which have taken place across the nation, with some incidents documented on surveillance footage.
There is growing concern among rights groups and citizens linking these abductions to a covert intelligence and counter-terrorism unit within the security forces. In response to the outcry, President Ruto stated his commitment to ending the abductions to ensure safety for the youth, while urging parents to look after their children.
Despite promises from the government, the fear surrounding disappearances persists, with families remaining anxious about the safety of their loved ones. Activists are keeping pressure on authorities to address these cases, as investigations into missing persons continue.
Currently, at least 24 individuals remain unaccounted for, prompting the Law Society of Kenya to initiate legal proceedings against the state for the immediate release of those abducted. The situation reflects the ongoing tension and fear that grips communities across the nation.
