Catholic bishops call for an end to abductions, killings during protests

Catholic Bishops have called for an end to the abductions observed in the country in the wake of anti-government protests.

In a statement issued on Monday, the Kenya Conference of Catholic Bishops described the abductions as 'illegal and criminal', emphasising that individuals issuing unlawful orders must be held personally accountable.

"We are a country with laws that govern how law and order should be dispensed. This is illegal and criminal. It must stop."

"You have heard that it was said to the men of old, 'You shall not kill, and whoever kills shall be liable to judgement'," reads the statement.

The bishops expressed concerns over the loss of lives during demos and stressed that there was no justification for the killings, as the protesters were unarmed and demonstrating during daylight hours.

"As Bishops, we caution the law enforcers to adhere to their code of conduct. No law allows unwarranted arrest, torture, or killing of people," the statement added. 

So far, at least 50 people have lost their lives since the anti-government protests started on June 18. 

In a statement on Tuesday, Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) Chairperson Roseline Odede revealed that some victims succumbed to injuries while receiving treatment. In contrast, others were found among the debris of the burned Sunbeam Mall in Nairobi.

According to the Commission, Nairobi leads with the highest number of deaths at 21, Nakuru (3), Laikipia (2), Narok (1), Kajiado (3), Uasin Gishu (4), Kakamega (2), Kisumu (3), Kisii (1), Mombasa (3), Siaya (1), Kiambu (1), Nandi (1), Embu (1), Homabay (1), Nyeri (1) and Bungoma (1).