The Kenya Human Rights Commission, along with several other rights groups, has raised concerns regarding the rise in abductions in Kenya. In a recent case, five young Kenyans were taken in broad daylight by unknown individuals and released after protests erupted in the streets. Human-rights organisations have reported that at least 82 individuals have been kidnapped since anti-government protests began in June 2024, with some 20 still missing.
Rights groups have accused the police of carrying out these abductions, a claim that the force has vehemently denied. Impeached former deputy president Rigathi Gachagua, who has had a public fallout with President William Ruto, claims that a secret government unit is responsible for the abductions, as well as for the torture and killing of government critics.
The introduction of a controversial IMF-backed finance bill sparked anti-government protests in early 2024. Resentment towards the government is at an all-time high as Kenyans struggle with the soaring cost of living.
Sources:
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/ced8q1yxggqo
https://www.voanews.com/a/anger-over-abductions-mounts-in-kenya/7916747.html