Nakuru, Kenya – Embakasi East Member of Parliament Babu Owino has called on President William Ruto to intervene in the case of missing fisherman Brian Odhiambo, whose alleged abduction has been linked to Kenya Wildlife Service (KWS) officers.
Odhiambo was reportedly seized by KWS officers on Saturday, January 18, 2025, near Lake Nakuru National Park. Despite the officers being taken to court for allegedly abducting him over 20 days ago, they were released, and Odhiambo’s whereabouts remain unknown.
“The courts released the officers while the family, friends, and well-wishers continue to plead with authorities to reunite the missing man with his family,” Owino said on Friday, February 7.
The outspoken Orange Democratic Movement (ODM) legislator compared Odhiambo’s case to the recent abduction of five chiefs by suspected al-Shabaab militants, in which President Ruto personally vowed to secure their release.
“A multi-agency team is working tirelessly to rescue the chiefs. We support that effort, but Brian Odhiambo must also be found and reunited with his distraught family,” Owino emphasized.
He urged the Head of State to take decisive action, stating:
“President Ruto, intervene and order KWS and local security agencies in Nakuru to release Odhiambo, just as you have done in securing the five chiefs. All those abducted must be freed.”
Protests and Court Ruling
Odhiambo’s disappearance has sparked mass protests in Nakuru, with enraged residents blocking roads, lighting bonfires, and even setting parts of Lake Nakuru National Park on fire in demand of his release.
On Thursday, February 6, Justice Julius Nangea of the Nakuru Law Courts ruled that there was insufficient evidence to prove Odhiambo was in KWS custody, stating:
“The 1st and 2nd respondents have denied having the subject in their custody. In the absence of sufficient evidence, no further orders will be issued regarding the habeas corpus application. The prosecution process will take its course.”
The verdict devastated Odhiambo’s family, with his mother, Elizabeth Auma, breaking down in court.
KWS Denial and Escape Allegation
KWS admitted arresting a man they suspected of illegal fishing in Lake Nakuru National Park but claimed they failed to record his name. A KWS officer, Abdulrahman Sudi, later alleged in an affidavit that the man—believed to be Odhiambo—escaped from custody while being allowed to relieve himself.
Sudi insisted he tried to recapture the suspect but was unsuccessful, denying any assault or foul play.
Mounting Concerns and Public Outcry
With Odhiambo missing for over two weeks, his mother and wife have made heartfelt appeals for his safe return. His case has raised alarm among human rights groups and the public, with growing concerns over whether he is still alive.
As pressure mounts, all eyes are now on President Ruto to act and ensure justice for Odhiambo and his family.
