- Moyale police officers arrested a 33-year-old man for involvement in the illegal recruitment of Kenyans for dangerous jobs overseas
- The DCI explained the man’s arrest following reports that more than 1,000 Kenyans were lured into military service in Russia, where most of them have died.
- Authorities urged Kenyans to report any suspicious recruitment activities to combat human exploitation
Marsabit: Criminal Investigation (DCI) officers at Moyale Police Station have arrested a 33-year-old man suspected of persuading Kenyans to do dangerous work overseas.
Source: Twitter
The arrest of Festus Arasa Omwamba on Wednesday, February 25, came amid an ongoing investigation into the recruitment of over 1,000 Kenyans into the Russian army.
Some Kenyans who traveled to Russia in the hope of working as couriers ended up dying in the war.
Why was Festus Omwamba arrested?
Detectives said Omwamba has been being monitored by the police for his involvement in the illegal transfer of Kenyans abroad.
“Investigation officers arrested Omwamba, a man who has been monitored by the police. It is believed that he is the main player in the widest network of illegal employment that exploits vulnerable people by promising them legitimate employment opportunities in European countries,” DCI it said in a statement.
However, when they arrive, these unsuspecting victims find themselves trapped in illegal and dangerous jobs, which deprive them of their dignity and security.
The authorities did not specify the destination country where Omwamba and his network send Kenyans for employment.
The suspect was taken to the police station for processing before being brought to court.
Did DCI appeal to Kenyans?
According to the officials, the arrest shows the DCI’s commitment to tirelessly pursue people who exploit innocent and vulnerable Kenyans and put them at risk of losing their lives abroad.
“This arrest demonstrates the DCI’s commitment to relentlessly pursue human traffickers and dismantle criminal networks that target vulnerable victims under the pretext of legitimate opportunities. Through sustained intelligence-led operations and close cooperation with various agencies, DCI continues to be steadfast in bringing criminals to justice and protecting unsuspecting victims from exploitation,” DCI added.
Authorities urged Kenyans to report any suspected criminal activity through the toll-free number 0800 722 203 or WhatsApp on 0709 570 000.
In addition, the government had previously warned Kenyans against taking jobs in foreign countries using tourist visas or through unverified channels.
Why will Musalia Mudavadi travel to Russia?
At the same time, the Assistant Prime Minister Stay Mudavadi he vowed to travel to Russia and cooperate directly with them regarding the illegal recruitment of Kenyans into his army.
He defended the government saying that it is not responsible for the existing loopholes, adding that many Kenyans who end up in the war between Russia and Ukraine travels through illegal routes without the knowledge of Nairobi.
Source: Facebook
Mudavadi’s remarks came after 27 people were rescued and returned to Nairobi.
Despite ongoing efforts, families continue to ask for help after losing their loved ones in war.
Reports emerged indicating that police officers also fled the country in search of opportunities in Russia.
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