The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has addressed allegations that some of its officers were involved in the abduction of a lady named Naomi.
Earlier this week, the reports went viral on social media, accompanied by a photo of the woman alleged to be Naomi.
However, in a statement issued on Thursday, December 26, DCI dismissed these claims, clarifying that the individual reported missing was not Naomi.
The directorate further explained that the woman featured in the photos which were falsely captioned has been identified as Clare Odindo after she presented herself at the directorate’s offices in Kibra to clarify the situation.
“Ms Clare Adindo Odhiambo, a 20-year-old lady whose TikTok photos were circulated with a caption that she had been abducted (allegedly by the DCI), has presented herself at DCI Offices in Kibra.
Clare clarified that despite her photos being used, her name wasn’t Naomi, as alleged by the author of the misinformation, and that she had neither been abducted nor arrested by police,” reads part of the statement.
DCI statement after alleged abduction of “Naomi”
Further, the directorate clarified that abduction, or kidnapping is a serious crime punishable by law and that it does not condone any form of abductions or kidnappings as these actions violate fundamental human rights and undermine the rule of law.
“The DCI is dedicated to investigating all allegations of such crimes thoroughly and ensuring that those responsible are held accountable.
It is essential for the community to work together in reporting any suspicious activities to aid in the fight against crime and protect the rights of all citizens,” the statement adds.
Also Read: Omtatah Reveals Details of Meeting with Kibet Bull Before Abduction
The statement by DCI comes following public uproar over the abduction of citizens who have been seen to critique the government.
Cartoonist Kibet Bull, his brother Rony Kiplangat, Bernard Kavuli, Peter Muteti and Billy Mwangi are among social media users who have been reported missing.
The Inspector General Douglas Kanja on Thursday morning said the National Police Service (NPS) is not involved in the abductions and that none of the abductees is held at police stations.
“For clarity, the Constitutional mandate of the National Police Service is not to abduct, but arrest criminal offenders,” Kanja said in a statement.
“We therefore appeal to the public to refrain from spreading false, fabricated, malicious, distasteful, misinformed and unverified information aimed at tarnishing the reputation and image of the National Police Service,” he added.
Judiciary condemns abductions in Kenya
On its part, the Judiciary of Kenya has condemned recent incidents of abduction of citizens saying that they threaten the constitutional rights of Kenyan citizens.
“Kenya is a constitutional democracy, where the rule of law stands as a foundational value and guiding principle of our governance. Abductions have no place in law and indeed are a direct threat to the rights of citizens,” the Judiciary said.
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