In a shocking development that has rattled residents of West Pokot County, the Kenyan government has ordered a fresh vetting of foreign nationals from Burundi, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Uganda’s Wagisu community, following the arrest of 13 individuals allegedly linked to cannibalism and human organ harvesting.
Speaking during a press briefing on Tuesday, July 8, 2025, West Pokot County Commissioner Khalif Abdullahi confirmed that the directive follows a high-level county security meeting held in response to the grisly arrests.
“The County Security Committee has directed that all aliens from the named countries and communities undergo fresh vetting to establish the purpose of their stay in Kapenguria, Makutano, and Bendera,” said Abdullahi.
SECURITY ON HIGH ALERT AS GRUESOME DETAILS EMERGE
According to preliminary investigations, the prime suspects—some of whom have reportedly confessed to the crimes—were residing illegally on a road reserve in the Bendera area. Commissioner Abdullahi has since ordered the demolition of all illegal structures on the site and the immediate reclamation of the land by the government.
“The suspects had built structures along the road reserve. We have already directed that those structures be flattened by close of business today,” he added.
KENYA COMMITTED TO EAC TIES—BUT NOT AT EXPENSE OF SECURITY
While reaffirming Kenya’s dedication to regional integration under the East African Community (EAC), Abdullahi emphasized that the nation’s sovereignty and security remain non-negotiable.
“We respect the East African spirit of cooperation and free movement. But all those arrested are from one community in Uganda. We will not hesitate to act firmly when our national security is at risk,” he stated.
POLICE FOIL MOB ATTACK ON KAPENGURIA POLICE STATION
The Commissioner also revealed that security officers successfully thwarted an attempted attack on Kapenguria Police Station by a group of youths allegedly planning to free the suspects and set the station ablaze.
“These are public institutions built by taxpayers. We will not allow criminals to attack them. Anyone planning such acts will face legal consequences,” he warned.
WARNING TO POLITICIANS AND YOUTH: STOP INCITEMENT OR FACE PROSECUTION
Commissioner Abdullahi did not mince words when addressing political incitement. He issued a stern warning to any leaders fueling unrest or encouraging illegal activities in the region.
“Politicians who are inciting the youth will be prosecuted. We will not allow anyone to exploit this tragedy for personal or political gain,” he declared.
INVESTIGATIONS UNDERWAY AS COURTS GRANT 21-DAY DETENTION
Authorities have assured the public that comprehensive investigations are already in motion. With substantial evidence already gathered, the suspects will be held in custody for 21 days pending the conclusion of the probe.
“We’re confident that our investigations will lead to successful convictions,” Abdullahi affirmed.
