IG Kanja, DCI Amin in court over abductions

Mlolongo residents Justus Mutumwa, Martin Mwau, and Karani Muema were reportedly kidnapped on December 16, 2024, and their whereabouts remain unknown.

DCI Amin and IG Kanja explained through their counsel, Paul Nyamodi, that the report of the three missing youths was filed at Athi River's Mlolongo Police Station. 

IG Kanja confirmed that the missing persons' reports were officially recorded at Athi River Police Station under OB No. 23/21/12/24 and Mlolongo Police Station under OB No. 43/25/12/2024.

"Your honour, I am appearing before this court pursuant to a court order that directed I do appear on account of three persons who were reported missing from Athi River and Mlolongo Townships," IG Kanja stated in court.

Furthermore, Kanja sought to reassure the public about their safety by emphasising the security measures in place during the holiday season. 

"Your honour, I want to let the people of Kenya know they are safe. We have just come from the festive season, and throughout the entire season, people enjoyed Christmas because this country is safe. So, I want to assure you that we are safe. I am the Inspector General of Police Service."

In response, State Prosecutor Mark Baraza stated that the Directorate of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has forwarded the case to the IG for investigation and expects to receive the results.

"We are aware of incidents of abduction. Following these complaints, the DPP directed the IG to investigate. The IG investigates and has institutional independence to do so. We are expecting the file on these abductions that we have heard about on social media and mainstream media," lawyer Baraza stated.

For weeks, IG Kanja and DCI boss Amin had failed to physically appear in court, providing various reasons for skipping the summons. 

Lawyer Nyamodi explained that the duo had left the country on Tuesday but returned on Thursday morning to comply with the court order.