The Law Society of Kenya has demanded the immediate release of two men who were allegedly seized on Saturday by individuals claiming to be police officials.
LSK president Faith Odhiambo said in a statement on Monday that “we have received distress calls on the abduction of two Kenyans by police officers on December 21, 2024”.
“We demand that police officers abandon and desist from these absurd, repressive tactics that have characterised 2024,” Odhiambo said.
“We call for the immediate, unconditional release of Billy Mwangi and Peter Muteti, or that they be presented before court to answer to whatever alleged charges on account of which they are being held as these abductions are contrary to the law.”
The LSK leader encouraged the government to observe, respect, defend, promote, and carry out the rights and fundamental freedoms established in the Bill of Rights.
Muteti, 22, is claimed to have been forced into a vehicle by four armed men, one of whom was wearing a police uniform, about 9 a.m.
Witnesses reported two armed guys rushed out of a moving vehicle and forced him into the car and sped off.
The social media influencer allegedly uploaded an obscene photo of President William Ruto to his profile before removing it.
Mwangi, for his side, claims to have been forcibly removed from a barbershop in Embu by four armed men wearing masks and driving a double cabin pick-up.
Police have repeatedly denied involvement in abductions, many of which were reported during the Gen Z-led anti-government rallies in June.
On November 11, the National Police Service (NPS) reported 57 abductions since the youth-led rallies began on June 18, 2024.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, while appearing before the Committee on Administration and Internal Security, denied allegations that police were abducting Kenyans who were linked to protests.
“I have made it clear, police don’t abduct or kidnap, we detain and keep inside stations whereby investigations commence,” Kanja said.“ Those found to meet the threshold of being taken to the court are arraigned while those who don’t are set free.”
