Justin Siocha, the whistleblower who exposed the embezzlement of Ksh 19.7 million from the National Government Affirmative Action Fund (NGAAF), has reportedly been abducted by individuals claiming to be officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Witnesses in Kisii, located in southwestern Kenya, say they saw Siocha being forcibly taken into a car by men who identified themselves as DCI agents.
The abduction has raised concerns about Siocha's safety and sparked fears that his disclosures regarding the alleged misappropriation of NGAAF funds—linked to Woman Representative Dorice Donya—may have put him at risk. Siocha’s whistleblowing has intensified calls for greater government accountability.
Justin Siocha has been abducted in Kisii by DCI officers in vehicle number plate KCG 745J
— I am Chege (@_James041) November 28, 2024
Justin Siocha exposed the embezzlement of Ksh 19.7M by Kisii Women Rep.
We are all pushing the #FreeJustinSiocha #RutoMustGoNow pic.twitter.com/Sc1e1jC9Vt
Local authorities, alongside human rights organizations, have condemned the act and are demanding swift action to locate Siocha and ensure his well-being. The Kisii County Police confirmed they are investigating the abduction, although they have not yet confirmed whether the individuals involved were genuinely affiliated with the DCI.
In a statement, Siocha’s family expressed their distress, urging for his safe return. "Justin has been a courageous voice against corruption, and we are devastated by his abduction. We hope and pray for his safety," the family said.
As the investigation continues, the incident has sparked outrage and highlighted the risks faced by whistleblowers in Kenya, with advocacy groups calling for stronger protections for those who expose corruption. The public remains hopeful for Siocha's safe return and justice for the embezzlement he courageously revealed.
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