NAIROBI, 12 November 2026: Amnesty International Kenya is deeply concerned following reports that advocate Abshir Ahmedsadak Abdi was found dumped in Isiolo this morning after being missing for 12 days. His disappearance, reportedly involving an abduction captured on CCTV footage, raises serious questions about the circumstances of his abduction, the perpetrators involved and the failure to ensure his safety.
The circumstances surrounding Abshir’s abduction and subsequent discovery must be thoroughly, promptly, independently and impartially investigated. The authorities must establish what happened to him during the 12 days he was missing, identify everyone involved in his abduction and hold those responsible to account in fair trials. Any evidence, including CCTV footage, must be secured, preserved and subjected to proper investigation.
This case must not become another statistic in Kenya’s growing list of unresolved abductions and enforced disappearances. The repeated failure to conclude investigations, disclose findings and ensure accountability only entrenches impunity and perpetuates a climate of fear. The authorities must demonstrate that abductions will not be tolerated and that no one is above the law.
We call on the National Police Service (NPS) and the Independent Policing Oversight Authority (IPOA) to ensure effective investigations into the circumstances of Abshir’s abduction. The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) must ensure that credible evidence is acted upon and that those suspected of criminal responsibility are brought before the courts.
We further call on the authorities to keep Abshir and his family informed of the progress and findings of the investigations, ensure the protection of witnesses and anyone who may face reprisals for providing information, and guarantee that all those involved, including anyone who may have facilitated or enabled the abduction, are held accountable.
We recognise the Law Society of Kenya, other partners and Kenyans who have sustained pressure and advocacy for Abshir’s release and safe return. Their persistence underscores the critical role of the legal profession, civil society and human rights defenders in challenging enforced disappearances and demanding accountability.
The Kenyan authorities have an obligation to protect everyone within their jurisdiction from enforced disappearance and other human rights violations, investigate allegations effectively and ensure access to justice and effective remedies for victims and their families.
ENDS
Signed:
George Morara
Executive Director, Amnesty International Kenya
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