Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi has been detained at Kamkunji Police Station, nearly 50 kilometers from where he was allegedly abducted by unknown men earlier that morning in Machakos County.

The news left his friends, family, and supporters in distress as they searched frantically for hours before tracking him down at the Nairobi police station.

Mwangi’s wife, Njeri Mwangi, was among the first to confirm his location, explaining that police had accused her husband of “incitement to violence.”

“They are holding him over claims of incitement—it’s all about this marathon,” she said, referring to the controversial protests Mwangi had planned for the upcoming Standard Chartered Marathon.

The activist’s detention has raised many questions, with no immediate comments from the police.

Human rights advocates like Hussein Khalid, who also went to support Mwangi at the station, expressed frustration, saying, “I can confirm that Boniface Mwangi is being held at Kamukunji Police Station in Nairobi, booked under the charge of incitement to violence. Family, lawyers, friends, and colleagues are at the station following up.”

The timing of Mwangi’s detention isn’t coincidental. Authorities seem to have moved swiftly to prevent Mwangi’s planned demonstration at the marathon—a rally intended to express public discontent with Kenya’s leadership.

The government’s quick action reflects growing concerns about the visibility and impact of such protests, especially during high-profile events like the marathon, which took place under increased security.

As Mwangi’s supporters continue to push for his release, government-affiliated social media accounts have been vocal online, attempting to sway public opinion by branding him a “traitor.”

Despite these pressures, Mwangi had shown no signs of backing down prior to his detention, rallying supporters to join him in peaceful protest.

This incident highlights the ongoing struggle for free expression in Kenya and the tension between activism and state power. As the situation unfolds, many Kenyans will be watching closely to see how the government responds to the demands for Mwangi’s release and whether his call for protest will inspire future demonstrations.