Four of the six recently reported missing Kenyans, allegedly abducted by unknown individuals, have been found alive, their families confirmed on Monday morning.
The freed individuals include Billy Munyiri Mwangi, a college student; Ronny Kiplangat, brother of cartoonist Kibet Bull; Bernard Kavuli, a content creator; and Peter Muteti. They were released in different locations across the country under unclear circumstances.
Mwangi, who was abducted in Embu town, walked home in Embu; Kiplangat, taken from Kikuyu, was freed in Machakos; Kavuli, abducted in Ngong, was found in Kitale; while Muteti, who went missing in Uthiru, was abandoned in Nairobi city center.
However, two individuals—cartoonist Gideon Kibet, also known as Kibet Bull, and Steve Mbisi—remain unaccounted for.
The abductions occurred amid rising concerns over enforced disappearances linked to youth-led anti-government protests since June 2024. According to the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), 82 abduction cases have been reported since June, with 29 still unresolved.
The release of the four occurred on the same day families, friends, and activists planned to resume street demonstrations demanding accountability from authorities.
President William Ruto’s administration has denied any involvement in the abductions. Addressing mourners in Bungoma County last Friday, President Ruto directed the Inspector-General of Police, Douglas Kanja, to ensure investigations are conducted and answers provided to affected families.
The families of the freed individuals report that the victims appeared frail and traumatized, with Mwangi requiring immediate medical attention. Kiplangat recounted being abandoned in Machakos County after days in captivity.
The public continues to demand transparency and accountability as questions linger over the fate of those still missing.
