The Director of Criminal Investigations (DCI), Mohamed Amin, has strongly refuted allegations that the investigatory board is aware of the whereabouts of individuals who went missing after being abducted during recent Gen Z-led protests.

Speaking on the matter, Mr Amin clarified that they take those they arrest to the gazetted police stations.

"The DCI is not involved in kidnapping. I wish I knew where the missing Kenyans are. Why would I kidnap anyone, and where would I even take them?” he posed.

These remarks come in the wake of a report from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR), which indicates that at least 66 people remain unaccounted for since the anti-tax (Finance Bill, 2024) demonstrations that took place across the country.

The protests were marked by widespread unrest and were largely driven by opposition to the new tax measures which the government had proposed.

The Finance Bill 2024, which introduced significant tax increases, sparked nationwide protests as citizens voiced their concerns over the rising cost of living and economic hardships. The demonstrations were met with a heavy police presence, resulting in numerous arrests. However, human rights organizations, including KNCHR, have raised alarms about the number of people who went missing during this period.

While the government has maintained that those arrested were processed according to the law, families of the missing individuals have expressed frustration and fear, with many still searching for their loved ones. Human rights advocates have called for a thorough and transparent investigation into these disappearances, urging the government to ensure accountability and justice for those affected.

The DCI’s denial of involvement in any kidnappings highlights the ongoing tension between law enforcement agencies and human rights groups.

As the situation unfolds, there are increasing demands for clarity and action to address the plight of the missing persons and to prevent further instances of such disappearances in the future.