Billy Mwangi's return from captivity ends 16 days of anguish for his family
He told his family that he had been held in a dark room and subjected to various forms of torture during his captivity.
In a dramatic turn of events, 24-year-old Billy Munyiri Mwangi, a college student who was abducted in Embu Town two weeks ago, returned home on Monday morning, reuniting with his family.
Mwangi’s sudden appearance ended 16 days of anguish for his parents, who had been desperately searching for him after he was taken by four hooded men in broad daylight.
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Mwangi’s return brought tears of joy to his family and neighbours, who had gathered at the home to celebrate.
His father, Gerald Karicha, described the emotional moment saying, his son brought himself home.
“He came back home alone at 8 a.m. I was at home with his mother when we saw him enter the compound, and we were overjoyed. He is okay, and we thank God. We also thank all those who consoled and supported us in prayers,” he said.
Although alive, Mwangi appeared frail, and unable to speak about his ordeal. His mother, Regina Wairimu, said he seemed confused and terrified.
He told his family that he had been held in a dark room and subjected to various forms of torture during his captivity.
Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji, who had been vocal about Mwangi’s disappearance, confirmed the student’s traumatised state.
“He was held in a dark room but could not tell its location. We condemn the abduction of Mwangi in the strongest terms possible,” he said.
The MP criticised the increasing cases of abductions and urged authorities to take decisive action to address the issue.
“We rose in protest and made a lot of noise, and we have been heard. Mwangi was released. Let him be the last person to endure such an ordeal in this country. The law is very clear on what should be done when a person commits an offence. These abductions should come to an end,” he said.
Manyatta MP Gitonga Mukunji says Billy Mwangi, who was released after abduction, is deeply traumatised, adding that during his time in captivity, he was whipped and locked in a dark room. pic.twitter.com/8KX1pa5Cvp
— The Eastleigh Voice (@Eastleighvoice) January 6, 2025
Mwangi’s ordeal began on December 21 when he was abducted while waiting for a haircut at a barbershop in Embu Town.
Witnesses said a white double-cabin pickup pulled up, and four hooded men—believed to be state security agents—forced him into the vehicle.
When Mwangi demanded to know why he was being arrested, the men reportedly said, “You will know later,” before speeding off.
His parents, alerted by the barber, immediately launched a search and reported the incident to Embu Police Station. Despite their efforts, Mwangi remained missing, sparking protests in Embu Town as residents demanded action from authorities.
When Mwangi returned, he was visibly dehydrated and malnourished. Neighbours and friends helped rush him to a private hospital on the outskirts of Embu Town, where he was placed on a drip.
A source at the hospital said Mwangi required medical attention due to his weak state. His family said he would share the details of his experience once his health improves.
For now, Mwangi’s safe return has brought a sense of relief to the community, though questions linger about the motives behind his abduction and the identity of those responsible.
