DCI invites CS Muturi to record statement over son’s abduction

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has requested Public Service Cabinet Secretary Justin Muturi to record a statement regarding the abduction of his son, Leslie Muturi, amid growing public concerns over a series of enforced disappearances across the country.

Responding to the criticisms, the DCI reassured the public that most abduction cases reported to the police have been successfully investigated and are now pending before the courts.

The agency stated that Leslie Muturi’s case, currently under DCI Kilimani, is being treated with urgency.

In a statement on Sunday, the DCI confirmed they had opened several inquiry files, which are at various stages of investigation, and pledged to forward them to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) upon completion.

“We wish to invite CS Muturi and any other person with information on the incident to record statements with DCI Kilimani,” the DCI said.

The agency appealed to the public for assistance, urging anyone with relevant information to come forward in confidence.

It also reiterated its commitment to ensuring that all abduction cases are thoroughly investigated and that those responsible are held accountable.

Muturi's criticism 

This comes after Muturi criticised the lack of transparency in investigations into his son’s kidnapping, which occurred in June 2024 in Nairobi’s Lavington area.

Speaking to the press on Sunday, the former Attorney General described the ordeal as deeply traumatising for his family. “I have personally suffered as my son was abducted, leaving my family in turmoil,” he said.

Muturi expressed frustration over the government’s silence, adding, “I’ve not received any answers as to why my son was abducted, held incommunicado, and no reasons were given for the ordeal.”

Muturi also questioned the government’s commitment to addressing the crisis, saying its silence has eroded public trust in national security agencies.

He urged the authorities to disclose the number of youths abducted, those released, and how many remain missing.

Human rights organisations estimate that over 80 Kenyans have been kidnapped since June 2024, with many victims reportedly being critics of President William Ruto’s administration.

Among the recent cases are five individuals—Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Bernard Kavuli, Rony Kiplangat, and cartoonist Gideon Kibet, also known as Kibet Bull—who disappeared after criticising the government online. They were however released 15 days later.

Despite denials from the National Police Service (NPS) regarding any involvement, several victims have alleged that their abductors were government operatives.

The absence of Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen, DCI Director Mohamed Amin, and Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja from court proceedings on January 8 has further fuelled suspicions.