NAIROBI, Kenya- Amnesty International Kenya has called for a prompt, independent and impartial investigation after advocate Abshir Ahmedsadak Abdi was found in Isiolo on Thursday morning, 12 days after he disappeared.
In a statement signed by Executive Director George Morara, Amnesty said reports indicate that Abshir was found after an alleged abduction captured on CCTV footage.
The rights group said the circumstances of his disappearance and subsequent discovery raise urgent questions about what happened during the 12 days he was missing, who was involved and whether those responsible will be held accountable.
Amnesty said authorities must secure and preserve all available evidence, including CCTV footage, and establish the full circumstances surrounding the incident.
Amnesty seeks NPS, IPOA and ODPP action
Amnesty called on the National Police Service and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority to conduct effective investigations into the alleged abduction.
It said the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions should act on credible evidence and ensure that any suspects are taken to court for fair trials.
“Any evidence, including CCTV footage, must be secured, preserved and subjected to proper investigation,” the organisation said.
The human rights group also asked authorities to keep Abshir and his family informed about the progress and findings of the investigation.
It further demanded protection for witnesses and anyone who may face reprisals for giving information, saying all people who may have facilitated or enabled the alleged abduction should be held accountable.
Amnesty warned that the case must not become another unresolved disappearance, saying failures to conclude investigations, make findings public and secure accountability have fuelled impunity and fear.
Legal fraternity had sustained pressure
Abshir was reported missing after armed individuals seized him along Muchai Road, off Ngong Road, in Nairobi on November 1.
Amnesty previously said CCTV footage and media reports showed armed individuals pursuing the advocate before taking him away.
The organisation said the apparent use of police-grade weapons and tactical equipment raised concern and required a credible investigation, but it did not identify any individual or agency as responsible.
The Law Society of Kenya, civil society organisations and other Kenyans had mounted sustained pressure for Abshir’s safe return, including protest marches and legal action.
Before the discovery, the High Court had allowed a habeas corpus case filed by Abshir’s brother to proceed to a substantive hearing after State agencies denied holding the advocate in custody.
Amnesty recognised the efforts by LSK, partners and members of the public, saying their advocacy demonstrated the importance of lawyers, human rights defenders and civil society in demanding accountability.
The organisation said Kenya has a duty to protect everyone within its jurisdiction from enforced disappearance and other human rights violations, investigate allegations effectively and ensure access to justice and remedies for victims and their families.
It urged the authorities to demonstrate that abductions will not be tolerated and that no one is above the law.
“Over 22 people abducted as of October 2026. A 450% increase in documented cases. Yet investigations stall, and accountability remains elusive,” the lobby group said.
