Family members of Mukhtar Muhammed who was
allegedly abducted by police demonstrate in Garissa town /STEPHEN
ASTARIKOA family in Garissa county has appealed to the government and security agencies to disclose the whereabouts of their relative, Mukhtar Muhammed, whom they allege was taken by individuals believed to be security officers nearly a month ago.
The family says Mukhtar disappeared on June 15 at about 5 pm while seeking treatment at a health facility on the outskirts of Holugho town in Ijara Constituency.
They claim armed men intercepted the group he was travelling with, assaulted some of the passengers, and took Mukhtar away. They say he has not been seen or heard from since.
Addressing the media, the family called on the government to either produce Mukhtar before a court if he is lawfully detained or release him immediately.
Family spokesperson Adan Abdullahi said Mukhtar is a peaceful pastoralist with no known criminal record.
"The government's duty is to protect its citizens, not to abduct them. We are simply asking the authorities to tell us where he is and guarantee his safety," Abdullahi said.
He urged the National Police Service, the Ministry of Interior, and human rights organisations to investigate the matter, saying the constitution guarantees due process for anyone suspected of committing an offence.
"We are a country governed by the rule of law. If someone is arrested, they should be presented before a court within the time provided by law. We have received no information about Mukhtar's whereabouts," he added.
Another relative, Harun Hussein, said the family has not received any official communication from government agencies since the incident.
"Our brother was going about his business when he was allegedly taken. His family is in distress, and we appeal to the government, human rights organisations, and the media to help ensure his safe return," Hussein said.
Mohamma Yusuf also urged authorities to uphold constitutional safeguards and ensure that anyone suspected of a crime is investigated and taken through the legal process.
Garissa County Human Rights Defenders Network representative Muktar Dahir condemned the alleged incident and called on security agencies to respect the constitution and the rule of law.
"If security agencies suspect anyone of criminal activity, that person should be taken to court and the family informed. We urge the government to end enforced disappearances and uphold the rights guaranteed under the constitution," Dahir said.
The family says it is still awaiting official information regarding Mukhtar's alleged arrest or detention and has called on independent oversight bodies and relevant authorities to investigate the matter.
INSTANT ANALYSIS
The family's appeal highlights growing concern over allegations of enforced disappearances and unlawful detentions in parts of northern Kenya. Human rights organisations have repeatedly urged security agencies to uphold constitutional safeguards, including informing families of arrests and presenting suspects before court within the legally prescribed period. The case is likely to renew debate over the balance between national security operations and the protection of fundamental rights. If not addressed transparently, such allegations risk eroding public trust in law enforcement and could intensify calls for independent investigations by oversight bodies, including the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (Ipoa).
Family members of Mukhtar Mahmoud Muhammed who was allegedly abducted by the police demonstrating in Garissa town./STEPHEN ASTARIKO
Muktar Dahir, Garissa County Human Rights Defenders
Network speaking to the press./STEPHEN ASTARIKO
