Abduction in Kenya: Billy Mwangi and Peter Muteti Freed Amid Protests

Two Kenyan men, Billy Mwangi and Peter Muteti, who were abducted in December 2024, have finally been freed.

Their release has brought relief to their families and sparked a heated discussion about human rights in Kenya.

Billy’s Painful Experience

On Monday morning, Billy Mwangi, who had been missing for 15 days, was dropped off in Nyeri, about 60 kilometres from his home in Embu.

With no way to get home, the young man walked back to his family in Majengo.

Heartwarming photos of his emotional reunion with loved ones have gone viral online.

An image of Billy Mwangi Reuniting with family — An image of Billy Mwangi(L) Reuniting with family(R)/PHOTO: Instagram

Billy’s family believes his outspoken criticism of the government may have been the reason for his abduction.

However, no concrete proof has been provided to support this.

Muteti’s Story

Peter Muteti, abducted in Nairobi on December 21, regained his freedom the same day as Billy.

Like Billy, his case may be connected to social media posts that were critical of the authorities.

Muteti safely made it back home after being freed.

An image of Peter Muteti — Peter Muteti was abducted in Nairobi on December 21 and released on January 6/PHOTO: X

A Bigger Problem: Protests and Missing People

Human rights groups have condemned the growing trend of kidnappings and enforced disappearances in Kenya.

These groups are planning protests on January 6 to demand justice and accountability.

Activists suspect abductors timed the release of Billy and Muteti to reduce public anger and weaken the protests.

Despite their freedom, at least seven other people remain missing, leaving families desperate for answers.

The Rising Wave of Abductions

In the last six months, kidnappings in Kenya have increased.

From June to December 2024, the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights recorded 82 cases, including seven in December alone.

Families now live in constant fear for their loved ones.

The spike in disappearances coincides with public protests against the controversial Finance Bill 2024.

This has raised suspicions that abductions may target those disputing for speaking out.

An image illustration of the release of Billy Mwangi and Peter Muteti — The Fight Against Forced Disappearances: Billy and Muteti’s Story/PHOTO: Files

Government Investigations Under Pressure

Kenya’s Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP), Mulele Ingonga, has ordered immediate investigations into these kidnappings.

He demanded action from the police and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA).

Also, he emphasized that the government must protect citizens’ rights to life, liberty, and security, as guaranteed by the Constitution.

Specific cases under investigation include those of Billy Mwangi, Peter Muteti, Steve Mbisi, Bernard Kavuli, Rony Kiplang’at, and cartoonist Gideon Kibet.

The directive gives authorities three days to complete the investigations and report their findings.

Conclusion

While the release of Billy and Muteti is a welcome relief, it highlights the ongoing danger to freedom of expression in the country.

Activists are urging the public to stay alert and demand accountability from the government.

The abduction crisis in Kenya calls for the urgent need to protect citizens from retaliation for simply expressing their opinions.

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