NAIROBI, Kenya – Former Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) chairperson Macharia Njeru has accused security agencies of complicity in Kenya’s rising cases of abductions and extrajudicial killings, dismissing their claims of ignorance as deceitful.
Njeru, who previously oversaw police conduct, stated that no such crimes could occur without the knowledge of the Ministry of Interior, the police, and the National Intelligence Service (NIS).
“Based on my past experience oversighting a security agency, I can authoritatively say no abductions and killings can happen WITHOUT the knowledge of the Interior Ministry, police, and the intelligence service. Let them stop feigning ignorance,” he posted on X.
Based on my past experience oversighting a security agency I can authoritatively say no abductions and killings can happen WITHOUT the knowledge of interior Ministry,police and the intelligence service.let them stop feigning ignorance.
His statement adds weight to mounting criticism from Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi, who has openly condemned the government’s handling of enforced disappearances and killings—going as far as challenging President William Ruto’s administration.
On Friday, while addressing the press at City Mortuary, where the bodies of two missing young men were discovered, Muturi described the wave of enforced disappearances as a national crisis.
“This is murder most foul. It is only fair that, at this point, the country shelves any other business to discuss this matter,” he said, demanding immediate government action.
Muturi warned that extrajudicial killings were undermining the government’s moral authority, pointing out that the president had campaigned on a promise to end forced disappearances.
“The buck must stop somewhere. Mr. President, I am calling upon you now to order an end to these abductions and open an inquiry into how these things have been happening,” he said.
He called for an independent commission of inquiry, including legal, religious, and civil society representatives, to uncover the truth behind the killings.
The discovery of the bodies of Martin Mwau and Justus Mutumwa—two of four men abducted in Mlolongo in December—has reignited public anger over security agencies’ alleged involvement in disappearances.
For weeks, their families searched desperately for answers, only to find their loved ones at the Nairobi Funeral Home.
Muturi’s sustained criticism of the government has sparked speculation about his political future, with some calling for his resignation. However, he remains defiant.
“Resignation is a side issue. It suffices that I sit in government. I am calling on the government to ensure this matter is discussed,” he asserted.
Muturi further questioned Kenya’s diplomatic priorities, criticizing the country’s involvement in conflict resolution in the Democratic Republic of Congo while failing to address killings within its borders.
“The number of people who have died is so high that it should prick the conscience of any right-thinking leader,” he said.
