Human Rights Watch (HRW) has raised concerns about Kenya’s Operation Support Unit (OSU), accusing it of carrying out a wave of abductions similar to those perpetrated by the disbanded Special Service Unit (SSU), both under the Directorate of Criminal Investigations. President William Ruto had dissolved the SSU, citing its involvement in extrajudicial killings – including of around 30 people whose bodies were found in the River Yala. Now, HRW alleges the OSU – the SSU’s replacement – is perpetuating similar abuses. Since mid-2024, the group documented 86 abductions, including 26 individuals still missing, following mass protests against an IMF-backed finance bill.
Sources
https://www.msn.com/en-us/news/world/report-exposes-dci-abduction-squad/ar-AA1xlAuo
Ruto disbands SSU
https://www.scmp.com/news/world/africa/article/3196303/kenya-disbands-killer-police-unit
Four Turks refouled
https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cvgwg5n0y0lo
Besigye abducted
Maria abducted