Kenyan Minister Accuses Intelligence Agency in Son's Abduction Scandal

In a shocking revelation, Kenyan Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi alleges that the national intelligence agency is responsible for his son's abduction, highlighting a troubling trend of abductions in the country.

A prominent Kenyan minister has gone public with allegations against the national intelligence agency, claiming they were involved in the abduction of his son, Leslie, last year. Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi's revelations have sparked criticism of the government's response to rising abduction cases. Muturi stated it took a direct intervention from President William Ruto for his son to be released, marking the minister as the first cabinet member to openly address the issue.

In a statement submitted to police crime investigators, Muturi detailed the circumstances surrounding his son's abduction, which occurred on June 22 of last year. Reports suggest over 80 individuals have been abducted in the past six months, coinciding with protests against taxation hikes that began in June. While some kidnapped individuals have been freed due to public outcry, many families remain in distress.

Despite reaching out to high-ranking security officials for assistance regarding his son's case, Muturi expressed frustration at their inability to provide answers. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) later advised him to file a statement, indicating an ongoing investigation.

Recalling his experience, Muturi explained how he sought help from the inspector-general of police and the director of the intelligence agency but received no support. His desperate plea eventually led him to President Ruto, where he detailed his concerns, including a suspicion that the National Intelligence Service (NIS) was responsible for his son's custody.

Muturi claimed President Ruto humorously downplayed the situation before making a call to NIS Director Noordin Haji. Haji reportedly confirmed the agency was indeed holding Muturi's son and assured the president he would be released within the hour.

Following his public statements, Muturi has faced pressure from government-aligned politicians to resign. Foreign nationals have also reported abductions in Kenya, including Maria Sarungi Tsehai, an activist from Tanzania, who recently shared her own harrowing experience. This troubling trend of abductions has raised alarms, with many fearing for their safety in what is meant to be a secure environment.