Human Rights Watch Africa has revealed that a special government security unit is behind the rising cases of abductions in Kenya.
During the release of its 35th World Report, the lobby group linked the surge in abductions to a security team called the Operations Support Unit (OSU).
The activists compared OSU to the previously disbanded Special Squad Unit (SSU), which operated during former President Uhuru Kenyatta’s administration.
They argued that the OSU mirrors the SSU’s operations and structure, despite the SSU being officially dissolved.
Speaking at the event, Human Rights Watch Africa Director Otsieno Namwaya claimed the OSU is based at the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters in Nairobi.
Namwaya accused President William Ruto’s government of reintroducing a similar security unit despite disbanding the SSU.
“After Ruto dissolved the Special Squad Unit (SSU), he established the Operations Support Unit (OSU) within the DCI, which is now performing the same roles as the SSU,” Namwaya stated.
The group disclosed that 83 Kenyans had been abducted in recent months, with 26 still unaccounted for. They raised concerns over the growing erosion of justice and the rule of law in the country.
Criticizing Ruto’s administration further, the lobby group accused the government of targeting foreign nationals seeking asylum in Kenya.
They highlighted the abduction attempt involving Tanzanian activist Maria Sarungi, describing it as part of a worrying trend of cross-border cooperation between government agencies.
Mausi Segun, an executive member of the group, pointed out that Maria Sarungi’s case was alarming but noted her ability to quickly inform the public about the incident as crucial in preventing further harm. “When people flee their countries to escape persecution, they should find safety.
Nations must offer a safe haven, not endanger refugees,” Segun emphasized.
The activists also highlighted the abduction of Kizza Besigye, a Ugandan political figure, who was allegedly taken in Kenya on November 20 last year under unclear circumstances before being handed over to Ugandan authorities to face military court charges.
Additionally, the group condemned the deportation of four Turkish nationals arrested in Kenya in November last year and forcibly returned to their home country.
They argued that such incidents tarnish Kenya’s global reputation as a safe space for refugees and asylum seekers.
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