Yoeal Haile: American detained in Nairobi released

Yoeal Haile, the American citizen held at Nairobi’s Capitol Hill police station since late last week, has been released, his friends and family announced on Sunday.

Haile was arrested and held under unclear circumstances, with the police reportedly refusing to release him, allow bail or charge him in court.

A member of Haile’s family, Yacob Berhane, shared an update on his X account on Sunday evening, writing in part: “Very happy to announce Yoeal is released and safe. Thank you everyone for all the support.”

Amnesty International Kenya is among the parties that raised concerns about Haile’s arrest. The rights organisation on Saturday said an OCS at the station had denied a bail or bond request.

CNN Journalist Larry Madowo said as of Sunday, Haile had been detained for the third day.