The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) has raised alarm over the treatment of youths abducted in December 2024, claiming they were paid between Ksh 2,000 and 3,000 by their abductors to keep quiet about their experiences.

The money was reportedly given to facilitate their return home after being abandoned in unknown locations.

Appearing before Justice Bahati Mwamuye, the commission’s lawyer argued that the state must be held accountable for the abductions, which they allege involved not only unlawful detention but also physical assault.

“The petitioners were subjected to degrading treatment. They were stripped naked, shaved, and physically assaulted over several days,” the lawyer told the court.

The commission has called for both the government and the National Police Service to answer for their involvement in the abductions.

In solidarity with the commission, the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), Katiba Institute, and other petitioners have demanded the state produce the missing individuals, dead or alive.

LSK President Faith Odhiambo emphasized the need for accountability, stating, “The duty bearers have failed to produce the two in court. They have access to public resources and cannot claim ignorance of their whereabouts.”

Lawyer Dudley Ochiel highlighted the fact that the two individuals have been missing for more than a month, accusing the state of contempt of court for failing to release them or comply with court orders.

At the hearing, several video clips were presented as evidence, showing the abductions taking place.

Prominent lawyer Martha Karua expressed her concern over the growing number of abductions in the country, calling it an “epidemic.” “We must establish a pattern and demonstrate that the state is fully aware of this situation from the top,” Karua said.