NAIROBI, Kenya — Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered a nationwide crackdown on suspects linked to a human trafficking and recruitment network that lured Kenyans with promises of overseas work, only for them to be sent to fight with the Russian armed forces in the ongoing Russia‑Ukraine war.
The directive follows multiple high‑profile arrests and intensified investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) and other law enforcement agencies into what officials describe as an “extensive human trafficking syndicate.”
The crackdown aims to dismantle recruitment rings and bring to justice those involved in exploitation and deception.
“A lot of inquiries are ongoing. We are going to know who did what and who played what role,” he said. “Their days are numbered.”
IG Kanja Orders Nationwide Crackdown on Russian Army Recruitment Scam Suspects
One of the key suspects, Festus Arasa Omwamba, 33, founder of a recruitment agency, was arrested by DCI officers in Moyale near the Kenya–Ethiopia border.
Investigators allege Omwamba played a central role in sending Kenyans abroad under false pretences, promising legitimate jobs before facilitating their travel to Russia and placement on the front lines of the conflict.
Kenyan intelligence reports presented to Parliament estimate more than 1,000 Kenyans were recruited through deceptive schemes, with many arriving in Russia on tourist visas before being misled into signing military contracts.
Some of those recruited have since been injured, repatriated, or are missing in action, according to official figures.
The IG’s order expands ongoing operations to identify and arrest anyone involved in the recruitment, facilitation, logistics, financial backing, or passport and visa irregularities connected to the schemes.
Law enforcement sources say they are reviewing travel and communication records tied to suspected recruitment networks.
Authorities have also engaged multiple government agencies to verify the status, welfare, and identities of Kenyans reportedly stranded or fighting abroad under questionable circumstances.
Families of recruits have been among the most vocal in demanding swift action and accountability.
The Russian Embassy in Nairobi has denied any official involvement in recruiting Kenyans or issuing visas for combat purposes, calling some of the allegations “dangerous and misleading propaganda.”
However, Kenyan officials maintain their focus on curbing illegal recruitment and protecting citizens from exploitation.
