Murkomen vows tough action over journalist abduction

NAIROBI, Kenya Sep 3 – Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen has vowed tough action against those responsible for the abduction of Standard Group Associate Editor Alex Kiprotich. Describing the act as "barbaric" and a disgrace, Murkomen emphasized that the perpetrator must face legal consequences. The abduction occurred on Tuesday night when Kiprotich was seized from his vehicle on the Gilgil-Nakuru highway and held for nine hours before being found safe near Masinga Dam.

The Standard Group CEO, Chaacha Mwita, led efforts to locate the journalist, who had taken shelter at a nearby family's home. Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja has ordered an urgent investigation to identify the attackers, with Murkomen stressing that those found responsible will face severe legal repercussions. The government has denied any involvement and tasked its Anti-Abduction Unit to locate the culprits.

Murkomen also highlighted the need for increased protection of journalists ahead of the 2027 General Elections, urging the Inspector General of Police to ensure journalists can work freely and transparently without fear of intimidation. The CS warned against using government positions to target journalists or other Kenyans, vowing that such behavior will not be tolerated in the country.