The National Police Service (NPS) has recorded 57 abduction cases since the youth-led demonstrations began on June 18, 2024, Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja says.
Appearing before the Committee on Administration and Internal Security, the IG dismissed reports of police abducting and killing Kenyans who were linked to the protests, citing that the officers always engage in lawful arrests.
He referenced cases of public figures such as activist Morara Kebaso, journalist Macharia Gaitho and politician Jimi Wanjigi were sensationalized as the officers followed the law when making the arrests.
The IG recorded that out of the 57 cases; 22 have since been found alive, 29 are still missing while six were found dead.
“I’ve made it clear, police don’t abduct or kidnap, we detain and keep inside stations whereby investigations commence. Those found to meet the threshold of being taken to the court are arraigned while those who don’t are set free,” Kanja said.
Despite acknowledging that the anti-Finance Bill protests were intended to be peaceful, he noted that some of the suspects took the opportunity to cause violence and destroy property.