In December 2024, Kenya experienced a series of alarming abductions targeting young men known for their critical stance against the government. Among those taken were Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Ronny Kiplang’at, Gideon Kibet (popularly known as Kibet Bull), and Bernard Kavuli. These disappearances ignited national outrage and intensified discussions about human rights and freedom of …
In December 2024, Kenya experienced a series of alarming abductions targeting young men known for their critical stance against the government. Among those taken were Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Ronny Kiplang’at, Gideon Kibet (popularly known as Kibet Bull), and Bernard Kavuli. These disappearances ignited national outrage and intensified discussions about human rights and freedom of expression in the country.
In December 2024, Kenya experienced a series of alarming abductions targeting young men known for their critical stance against the government. Among those taken were Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Ronny Kiplang’at, Gideon Kibet (popularly known as Kibet Bull), and Bernard Kavuli. These disappearances ignited national outrage and intensified discussions about human rights and freedom of expression in the country.
Chronology of Events
December 21, 2024: Billy Mwangi, a 24-year-old college student and blogger, was abducted by four hooded men at a barbershop in Embu town. His father, Gerald Karicha, recounted that the abductors had trailed Mwangi for days before seizing him. The family reported the incident to the authorities, but initial efforts yielded little information.
December 22, 2024: Bernard Kavuli, a content creator, was abducted at a petrol station in Ngong. He later recounted being blindfolded, stripped naked, beaten, and denied food during his 15-day captivity. Kavuli described being held in dark rooms and interacting with other abductees, suggesting a broader pattern of targeted abductions. citeturn0search4
December 25, 2024: Ronny Kiplang’at, brother of cartoonist Gideon Kibet (Kibet Bull), was abducted after attending a church service in Kikuyu. His family reported the disappearance, expressing deep concern over his sudden absence.
December 2024: Peter Muteti, 22, was abducted by unknown individuals in Uthiru. Details about his captivity remain scarce, but his disappearance added to the growing list of young men targeted during this period.
December 24, 2024: Gideon Kibet, known for his satirical cartoons criticizing the government, was abducted upon alighting from a bus. His disappearance was particularly concerning given his prominence in the artistic community and his outspoken views. citeturn0search9
Release and Aftermath
The release of these individuals did not quell public concern. Human rights organizations, including VOCAL Africa, intensified their calls for accountability and transparency. Protests erupted in various parts of the country, demanding an end to enforced disappearances and the protection of free expression. Notably, opposition politician Senator Okiya Omtatah was arrested during a demonstration in Nairobi, highlighting the escalating tensions between civil society and the government. citeturn0news20
Government Response and Implications
The Kenyan government faced intense scrutiny over these abductions. In a significant revelation, Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi disclosed that his own son had been abducted by the National Intelligence Service (NIS) during the previous year’s anti-government protests. Muturi’s account detailed how President William Ruto intervened to secure his son’s release, highlighting the administration’s awareness of such covert operations. citeturn0news21
These events have ignited a broader discourse on the state’s role in suppressing dissent and the urgent need for transparency and accountability within security agencies. Human rights organizations continue to call for comprehensive investigations to prevent future violations and to uphold the fundamental rights enshrined in Kenya’s constitution.
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For a visual account of these events, watch the following news report:
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