Two brothers and a civil rights activist who were abducted last month in separate incidents have been found alive, bringing a dramatic end to an ordeal that has intensified tensions between Kenya’s police and judiciary.
The Longton brothers, Jamil, 42, and Aslam, 36, were discovered in Gachie, while activist Bob Njagi was located in Kikuyu. All three are receiving medical attention following their release.
The disappearance of Jamil and Aslam Longton from Kitengela on August 19, 2024, after being seized by men reportedly identifying themselves as police officers, set off a wave of alarm and legal battles that have drawn the spotlight onto Kenya’s security forces. Bob Njagi, the coordinator of the Free Kenya Movement, had been taken in a similar manner days earlier in Mlolongo.
Early on Friday, the two brothers were found abandoned at the Gachie border, where they were reportedly left by their abductors. Bob Njagi also made contact with authorities, arriving at Tigoni Police Station in the early hours of the morning.
“We are deeply relieved that Jamil and Aslam Longton have been found alive,” said Faith Odhiambo, President of the Law Society of Kenya, who has been vocal in demanding answers. “They were dumped in Gachie, but they are safe now. Every prayer, every call for justice, made a difference.”
Odhiambo also confirmed that Njagi was safe, adding that he had walked into the Tigoni station in the dead of night, ending speculation that the three men had been murdered.
Njagi, in a public statement, expressed gratitude to his supporters. “To all who prayed for me, I am well. It is time to reflect on why Kenya matters, and why we must keep fighting for its future,” he said.
The abductions have thrown a harsh light on the conduct of the police and led to a confrontation with the judiciary. After seven missed court appearances, Deputy Inspector General Gilbert Masengeli was sentenced to six months in prison for contempt by Justice Lawrence Mugambi. Masengeli had been ordered to explain the men’s disappearance but failed to do so.
Days after the sentencing, Justice Mugambi’s security detail was suddenly withdrawn, raising eyebrows across legal and political circles. Masengeli defended the move, stating that the officers had been reassigned for VIP security training.
“I am new in office, but I can confirm that we do not have the Kitengela three in custody,” newly appointed Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja told reporters on Thursday. “There is an active investigation, and we intend to get to the bottom of this.”
