Kitengela abductions: Acting Police IG Masengeli ignores court orders, again

Acting Inspector General of Police Gilbert Masengeli on Thursday once again defied court orders, marking his fourth consecutive failure to appear and explain the recent abduction of three men in Kitengela.

The court was informed that Masengeli was reportedly on official duty in Mombasa and requested a new date for his appearance.

State counsel representing him sought permission for their client to attend the session virtually, but this request was denied by the court.

Counsel Wanjiku Mwangi told the court: “I have information that my client is in Mombasa for a must-attend workshop on the validation forum for the final review of workplan and budget.”

Lawyer Rebbeca Omwenga, on her part, stated: “It is quite shocking that the officer who is supposed to uphold the rule of law is the one defying orders. We’re therefore praying that he be held in contempt, because as the ruling stated; the court has teeth and it can bite. It is high time that it bit and it bit hard.”

When it became evident that Masengeli would not appear during the morning session, proceedings were adjourned and he was ordered to be present at 3p.m. However, State counsels requested that he attend virtually instead.

Justice Lawrence Mugambi was however not amused, posing: “Is it difficult for someone to come and explain something grave as the matter before us? What is difficult?”

The situation led to mounting frustration among the families and activists involved, culminating in a disruption during the court session as the judge was preparing a ruling. This disruption forcing yet another adjournment.

Lawyer Stephen Mbugua said: “The IG has been blatantly disobeying court orders, it is unfortunate that the court is not dealing with the matter firmly.”

Activist Florence Kanyua noted: “We are very disappointed today…lives of Kenyans have been lost, some have gone missing and the IG does not care. The only language that the police understands is demonstrations and we will mobilise to occupy the office of the IG.”

Masengeli was expected to provide an explanation on the whereabouts of three individuals: Jamil Longton, his brother Aslam Longton, and activist Bob Njagi, who were reportedly abducted by individuals believed to be police officers on August 19, 2024, amid the Gen Z protests.

Justice Mugambi has now set Monday next week as the new date for the acting police IG’s appearance in court.