In a dramatic crackdown, Kenyan detectives have dismantled a human trafficking syndicate allegedly recruiting citizens for forced military service in Russia’s ongoing war against Ukraine.
The operation unfolded on the night of September 24, when officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) raided a house in Athi River, Machakos County. They rescued 21 Kenyans who were reportedly being held while awaiting deployment to Russia. Some victims had already paid between KSh 1.65 million and KSh 2.31 million for visas, travel, and accommodation, only to be coerced into joining the Russian military.
One suspect, identified as Edward Kamau Gituku, believed to be coordinating the illegal recruitment and travel arrangements, was arrested during the raid and is now in police custody. Investigators noted that some of the victims were ready to travel with passports and visas, while others were found in apartments converted into short-term rentals on the outskirts of Athi River.
This bust comes amid rising reports of Kenyans being trafficked to Russia and forced into military service. In one case, a Kenyan athlete claimed he was tricked into joining the Russian military before being captured by Ukrainian forces. The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has launched an inquiry and is working through its embassy in Moscow to verify claims and safeguard the welfare of affected citizens.
Authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant against suspicious foreign employment offers that may hide exploitation or trafficking schemes. The DCI continues to investigate the network and track down any additional suspects involved in this alarming operation.
