Escalating Police Abductions Spark National Outrage
Rising Concerns Over Abductions
Kenyans express growing alarm over the escalating abductions tied to ongoing protests against the Finance Bill 2024. Consequently, citizens perceive these abductions as attempts to intimidate protest leaders and vocal critics. Many of those who were abducted are later released following public outcry, further fueling suspicions about police involvement.
Mysterious Disappearances and Releases
On Monday morning, authorities reported four known abductions and one attempted case. Therefore, the public demands answers for these reckless apprehensions. Kenyans refuse to be silenced by these tactics and continue to protest against the bill. They have created posters reading, “Abductions won’t stop us,” showing their resolve.
Video Evidence from Mombasa Governor
On Sunday night, Mombasa Governor Abdulswamad Nassir posted a video on X showing a young boy being abducted. Consequently, four men whisked the boy into a waiting car in Bamburi Go Kart. Nassir condemned the abductions, calling them a return to a dark era. He stated, “You cannot silence people through making them disappear. This is definitely not the Kenya we want.”
Abduction of Dr. Austin Omondi
Dr. Austin Omondi
Kidnappers abducted Dr. Austin Omondi, also known as Ja Prado, in Nairobi while he ran a blood donation drive for injured protesters. Police took him in a vehicle with the registration number KCU 819H. Hours later, Dr. Omondi updated on X, saying, “I was abducted by the Kenya Police and taken in by the NIS. My family and legal representatives cannot access me.”
Medical Community’s Response
The Kenya Medical Practitioners, Pharmacists, and Dentists Union (KMPDU) demanded Dr. Omondi’s immediate release. Representing 10,000 medical doctors, they threatened to shut down all public and private medical services. Their solidarity highlights the severe impact of these abductions on various sectors.
Attorney General’s Son Abducted
Leslie Muturi
Kidnappers reportedly abducted Leslie Muturi, son of Attorney General Justin Muturi, on Saturday night in Nairobi’s Lavington area. Consequently, friends raised the alarm after his disappearance. Leslie later resurfaced at a police station, following public pressure. Embakasi West MP Mark Mwenje revealed in a video that Leslie’s car was abandoned by the road.
Release of Influencer Billy Simani
Police released prominent X user Billy Simani, known as Crazy Nairobian, from custody on Saturday. His arrest on Friday sparked outrage, with over 50,000 Kenyans joining an X Space demanding his release. Despite claims that he sent threatening messages to a public servant, reasons for his arrest remain unclear.
Activist Boniface Mwangi’s Close Call
Activist Boniface Mwangi reported surviving an abduction attempt by officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). He declared on X, “Anyone who stands between the will of the people shall fail. I’m going to be offline. Continue with the struggle!” His statement underscores the persistent danger faced by vocal critics.
Abduction of Protest Mobiliser Shad Khalif
Authorities reportedly abducted Shad Khalif, a leading mobiliser of the demonstrations. Therefore, Kenyans online now demand his immediate release, demonstrating the unity and resolve among the protesters.
The escalating abductions in Kenya spark national outrage and highlight the growing tension between citizens and authorities. Despite these intimidations, Kenyans remain steadfast in their fight against the Finance Bill 2024. Consequently, public outcry and solidarity continue to play a crucial role in ensuring the safety of those targeted. The nation watches closely as these events unfold, hoping for justice and an end to the abductions.
