Blogger and tech expert Ndiangui Kinyagia, who had been reported missing for over a week, has resurfaced, confirming he is alive, safe, and in good health.
In a statement released on Thursday, July 3, Kinyagia’s family, through their lawyer Wahome Thuku, announced that he had made contact with a family member on Tuesday evening, offering insight into his mysterious disappearance.
“On behalf of the family, I wish to inform Kenyans and the public that Ndiangui, who went missing, has contacted family and is well, healthy, and safe,” the statement read in part.
According to the family, Kinyagia revealed that he had gone into hiding after learning that officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) were pursuing him over unspecified criminal allegations. Fearing for his safety, he opted to remain in an undisclosed location.
“He indicated that he had hidden temporarily for fear of his life upon learning that DCI were looking for him over unknown criminal allegations,” the statement continued.
Kinyagia has expressed willingness to cooperate with authorities and appear in court, but only after receiving assurances regarding his safety.
Kinyagia’s disappearance ignited widespread concern, particularly on social media, where Kenyans demanded answers and criticized the silence from security agencies.
The incident unfolded at a time of heightened public scrutiny over the handling of protest-related cases by law enforcement, fueling suspicion around Kinyagia’s sudden disappearance.
The High Court had previously summoned Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja to account for Kinyagia’s whereabouts, but he failed to appear. In response, the court escalated the matter by summoning Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin to provide clarity on the blogger’s location.
The circumstances surrounding Kinyagia’s disappearance and the authorities’ response have only intensified the ongoing debate over accountability and safety for outspoken Kenyans.
By Were Kelly