DCI Agents Bust Human Trafficking Ring Sending Kenyans to Russian Warfront

Kenya’s security agencies have busted a human trafficking network that lured Kenyans with promises of work in Moscow, Russia, only for them to be forced into the Russian military and deployed to the frontlines in Ukraine.

The breakthrough came through a multi-agency operation, where officers from across security services targeted the syndicate after uncovering that Kenyans were paying large sums for employment opportunities in Russia, only to end up fighting in the war.

Reports indicate that some victims have been killed, while survivors bear serious injuries, signs of torture, or psychological trauma.

Two Kenyans have reportedly returned home from Russia recently, with one currently receiving treatment at Kenyatta National Hospital.

On Wednesday, the Transnational Organised Crime Unit of the DCI, together with other security officers, conducted an intelligence-led operation at Great Wall Apartments in Athi River, where they rescued 21 Kenyans who were being held while awaiting processing to Russia.

Arrests and Evidence Recovered

Officers arrested one suspect who was reportedly coordinating the recruitment of Kenyans for travel to Russia in September and October, disguising military enlistment as lucrative overseas jobs.

The victims told authorities that they had signed agreements with an unnamed overseas employment agency, committing to pay between Ksh1.7 million and Ksh2.3 million for visas, travel, accommodation, and logistics.

Those who fail to pay within 35 days face a one percent daily penalty. Some victims revealed that they had already paid deposits ranging from Ksh50,000 to Ksh100,000, after being promised a monthly salary of Ksh200,000.

During the raid, officers recovered documents indicating high-level recruitment activities, including a one-year partnership between two firms tasked with recruiting, screening, and deploying Kenyans to Russia.

The officers also seized cheque books, travel documents, and job offer letters from various countries.

A preliminary investigation suggests a well-organized recruitment scheme, with some main players reportedly being senior figures in society. Authorities continue to interview the victims, who are expected to provide further details on the syndicate’s operations.

In the mean time, Kenyans are advised to exercise caution when seeking overseas employment and to report any suspicious recruitment schemes to the DCI hotline or local police stations.

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