The body of Ibrahim Hilal Mwiti, a 24-year-old activist who went missing in November 2024, has been discovered at Thika Level Five Hospital mortuary, sparking public outrage and renewed fears about the growing trend of enforced disappearances in Kenya. Mwiti, who also worked as a bodaboda delivery rider in Nairobi, was last seen in the city center before his disappearance.
MISSING PERSON ALERT:
— Prince Bahaa (@Its_Bahaa) November 17, 2024
NAME; Ibrahim Hilal Mwiti
AGE; 24Years
Sadhiya Iman is desperately searching for her son Ibrahim who was last seen on Monday around Nairobi CBD.
If you have any information about him kindly contact the mom..👇🏾👇🏾
Sadhiya Iman 0719 500993 pic.twitter.com/da1NTczQ1s
Unclear Circumstances Surrounding His Death
The details surrounding Mwiti’s death remain unclear. His mother, Sadhiya Iman, speculated that it might have been a hit-and-run incident but also noted unverified claims suggesting abduction and murder.
“I looked at his body, and it appears to be a case of hit-and-run,” she said. “However, I’ve also heard disturbing rumors on social media pointing to foul play.”
Sadhiya recounted the family’s grueling search across Nairobi and surrounding areas, which ended when they identified Mwiti’s body at Thika mortuary on January 2.
Friends and mourners have cast doubt on the hit-and-run narrative, pointing out inconsistencies in the case. One attendee at Mwiti’s burial questioned why the motorbike he was reportedly riding was not used to trace his next of kin. “This doesn’t add up. There are too many unanswered questions,” they said.
Calls for Justice and Transparency
Activists who supported Mwiti’s family during the search have also voiced skepticism over the official account. Prince Baha, a fellow activist, expressed frustration at the lack of clarity.
“As Muslims, we typically avoid post-mortems, but we are convinced this was no accident,” Baha said. “We are tired of losing young people like Mwiti to these abductions and unexplained deaths. He was only 24 and deserved to live.”
The family opted against a post-mortem, but activists have called for a thorough investigation to establish the truth.
A Broader Crisis of Abductions and Disappearances
Mwiti’s death highlights an alarming trend of abductions and disappearances in Kenya. Data from the Kenya National Commission on Human Rights (KNCHR) indicates that 82 cases were reported between June and December 2024, with 13 occurring in the last three months of the year. December alone accounted for seven such cases.
President William Ruto addressed the issue during a burial in Bungoma County on January 3, condemning abductions and pledging accountability.
“We have made it clear that criminal acts, whether by individuals, criminal groups, or rogue elements within the police, must be investigated. Those responsible will face the law,” he affirmed.
However, human rights advocates argue that government efforts to curb these cases have been insufficient, leaving many families vulnerable and fearful. Mwiti’s death serves as a grim reminder of the urgent need for systemic reforms to ensure justice and safety for all Kenyans.
