Nairobi, Kenya, January 6- Kenya’s growing crisis of abductions and forced disappearances has taken a grim turn, with two victims recently freed after weeks in captivity. Billy Mwangi and Peter Muteti, who had been missing for over two weeks, were released under mysterious circumstances on Monday, January 6.

Billy, missing for 15 days, was abandoned in Nyeri County, approximately 60 kilometers from his home in Embu. After finding his way back, he was reunited with his family, who suspect his abduction was linked to his outspoken criticism of the government. Emotional scenes of Billy embracing his relatives at their Majengo home were shared widely online.

Muteti’s ordeal ended in Nairobi, where he was released and managed to return home. He had been abducted on December 21 outside an apartment in the city, allegedly over controversial social media posts.

These releases came just as human rights activists were preparing protests across the country to denounce the rise in abductions and forced disappearances. Organizers believe the timing of Billy and Muteti’s freedom was a strategic move to deter the demonstrations. However, they called for continued public pressure, noting that at least seven people remain missing.

A Worsening Trend

Statistics from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights reveal a worrying increase in abductions, with at least 82 cases reported since June 2024. Many of these incidents occurred during youth protests against the Finance Bill 2024. In December alone, seven new cases were recorded, bringing the total to 13 in the last three months of the year.

This surge has left families in constant fear, particularly parents worried about the safety of their children. Despite public outcry, little progress has been made in resolving these cases or holding perpetrators accountable.

Government Response

The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mulele Ingonga, has expressed deep concern over the situation, citing the state’s constitutional obligation to protect life and ensure personal security. He has directed the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to investigate the matter urgently.

The DPP has demanded updates on the status of investigations by January 1, 2025, and instructed that a comprehensive probe file be submitted to his office within three days. Specific cases under review include those of Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Steve Mbisi, Bernard Kavuli, Rony Kiplang’at, and cartoonist Gideon Kibet, known as Kibet Bull.

Mounting Pressure

The protests planned for January 6 proceeded amid heavy police deployment in Nairobi and other urban areas, highlighting the government’s sensitivity to the issue. Activists, however, remain undeterred, insisting that sustained public demonstrations are vital to addressing the rising threat of abductions and enforced disappearances.

As the nation grapples with this alarming trend, the call for justice and accountability grows louder, with families, activists, and officials demanding swift action to end this wave of terror.

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