The Lower Eastern Times Opening The Third Eye
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The Law Society of Kenya (LSK) has demanded the immediate release of two individuals who were reportedly abducted on Saturday by individuals believed to be police officers.
In a statement issued on Monday, LSK President Faith Odhiambo said, “We have received distress calls regarding the abduction of two Kenyans by police officers on December 21, 2024.”
Odhiambo urged that police officers cease these “absurd, repressive tactics that have marked 2024,” adding, “We call for the immediate and unconditional release of Billy Mwangi and Peter Muteti, or for them to be brought before a court to face any alleged charges, as these abductions violate the law.”
She also called on the government to uphold the rights and freedoms enshrined in the Bill of Rights.
Muteti, 22, is reported to have been forced into a vehicle by four armed individuals, one of whom was wearing a police uniform, around 9 a.m. Witnesses said two armed men jumped from a moving vehicle, abducted him, and sped off. The social media influencer is alleged to have posted an offensive image of President William Ruto before removing it.
Mwangi is said to have been abducted from a barber shop in Embu by four masked armed men in a double-cabin pickup.
Despite numerous reports of abductions, especially after the youth-led anti-government protests in June, police have consistently denied involvement. On November 11, the National Police Service (NPS) reported 57 abduction cases since the protests began on June 18, 2024.
Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, speaking before the Committee on Administration and Internal Security, rejected claims that police were involved in abductions, stating, “I have made it clear, police don’t abduct or kidnap; we detain and hold individuals in stations for investigations. Those who meet the legal criteria are taken to court, while those who do not are released.”
