Police Chiefs appear in court over Mlolongo abductions

Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja and Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) Director Mohamed Amin appeared before the High Court on Thursday, January 30, 2025, to address the mysterious disappearance of three individuals from Mlolongo, Machakos County.

The two senior police officers were summoned by Justice Chacha Mwita to explain the whereabouts of Justus Mutumwa, Martin Mwau, and Karani Muema, who went missing on December 16, 2024. Despite previous failures to attend court sessions, both Kanja and Amin complied with the court’s directive this time.

During the hearing, DCI Director Amin clarified that the National Police Service (NPS) was not involved in the custody of the missing individuals. “I wish to state that the missing persons are not under the custody of the National Police Service. We have not arrested them, and they are not under our custody. Under these circumstances, we can neither produce their bodies nor formally prefer any charges against them,” Amin stated.

He further emphasized that the Constitution of Kenya mandates that any individual arrested by the police must be presented before a court of law within 24 hours. “The Constitution is very clear: any person arrested by officers of the National Police Service must be brought before a court within 24 hours. We are fully aware of this provision,” Amin added.

The court had earlier directed Kanja and Amin to appear in person after dismissing their application for exemption from attendance. The two had argued that they were unaware of who arrested the three men or where they were being held.

The disappearance of Mutumwa, Mwau, and Muema has sparked widespread concern, with their families left in anguish over their fate. The case has drawn significant public attention, highlighting the need for accountability and transparency in addressing such incidents.

Justice Mwita reiterated the importance of protecting the rights and lives of the missing individuals, urging the police to intensify efforts to uncover the truth.

As the investigation continues, the families of the missing men and the public await answers, hoping for justice and closure in this troubling case.