NAIROBI, Kenya, Sept 2 — The National Police Service has launched investigations to establish the identities of heavily armed men who allegedly abducted Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich.

📻 Breaking It Down

The NPS said its Anti-Abduction Unit was investigating the circumstances surrounding Kiprotich’s disappearance, including the identities of the men reportedly seen ordering occupants out of a vehicle along the Gilgil-Nakuru Road on Tuesday night.

Kiprotich was found safe near Masinga Dam early Wednesday after spending about nine hours in the hands of his alleged abductors.

“The Inspector General of Police has accordingly ordered immediate investigations to determine what transpired, including the identity of the heavily armed individuals reportedly seen ordering occupants out of their vehicle,” NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga said in a statement.

📌 What You Need to Know

The police said the Anti-Abduction Unit, established specifically to investigate abductions and disappearances, was actively pursuing the case and would work to ensure those responsible were brought to justice.

“Our Anti-Abduction Unit, specifically established to address abductions and disappearances, is actively investigating and will ensure that the perpetrators are brought to justice,” Nyaga said.

The NPS condemned the incident and warned against attempts to intimidate journalists or interfere with constitutional rights, including press freedom.

“We unequivocally condemn any act of kidnapping, abduction, or intimidation intended to interfere with press freedom or any other constitutional right,” Nyaga said.

The police also pledged a transparent investigation, saying “no one is above the law.”

The latest probe comes amid growing pressure on security agencies to account for attacks against journalists, with the Media Council of Kenya saying Kiprotich had previously reported a similar ordeal in Nakuru County without any arrests being made.

📰 Source: Capital FM Kenya