Kenya has experienced a troubling surge in disappearances, with over 80 people abducted in the past six months, according to a state-funded rights group.
These incidents often target government critics and are believed to involve security agents, though the government denies responsibility.
The abductions began in June 2024 during nationwide anti-tax protests and intensified in December after AI-generated images depicting President William Ruto in a coffin were widely circulated. 
Families Reunited, But Trauma Persists
Among the four men released on Monday was 24-year-old student Billy Mwangi, who disappeared from Embu in the Mount Kenya region.
Local MP Gitonga Mukunji described his ordeal: “He was whipped and beaten while in a dark room. He is traumatised.” Mwangi’s father shared that his son, unable to discuss the experience, has been hospitalized for recovery.
Similarly, 22-year-old Peter Muteti, seized in Nairobi on December 21, was reunited with his family but remains disoriented and unwilling to talk about his ordeal.
Amnesty International Kenya has welcomed the releases but called on the government to free all abductees and hold perpetrators accountable. Public outcry continues to mount, with protests planned to demand further action.
Government and Police Responses
The Kenyan police, who previously denied involvement, acknowledged the release of the abducted men. They reported that one of the individuals had voluntarily presented himself at a police station. Investigations into the abductions are ongoing, according to a police statement.
President Ruto addressed the issue in December, promising to end abductions while urging parents to instill discipline in their children. However, critics argue that no significant action has been taken since his remarks.
Other Released Individuals and Remaining Concerns
Two additional youths, Ronny Kiplangat and Bernard Kavuli, have also been freed. Kavuli, a content creator, was seized in December, while Kiplangat’s brother, satirical cartoonist Kibet Bull, remains missing.
Kibet Bull is widely known for his silhouette cartoons critical of the president, and his disappearance has drawn attention to the plight of individuals targeted for political dissent.
Legal Action and Public Anxiety
The Law Society of Kenya has filed a legal case against the state, demanding the immediate and unconditional release of seven individuals abducted last month.
The continuing disappearances have sparked fear across Kenya, with parents concerned for their children’s safety and activists determined to keep up the pressure until all missing persons are accounted for.
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