Kiambu County was gripped by tension late on June 30, 2025, following reports of the alleged abduction of Peter Kinyanjui Kawanjiru, the Democracy for the Citizens Party (DCP) Youth Coordinator for Kiambu. The incident, which occurred in Limuru, has raised concerns among residents and activists, with social media posts amplifying fears of targeted abductions amid ongoing protests in the region.
According to multiple accounts circulating online, Kawanjiru was allegedly seized from his home by a group of heavily masked men accompanied by a fleet of up to 10 unmarked vehicles, some identified as Subarus. Witnesses reported hearing gunshots during the incident, with claims that the operation involved plainclothes officers, possibly from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The timing of the alleged abduction, coinciding with the anniversary of the 2024 anti-tax protests, has fueled speculation of political motives, though no official confirmation from authorities has been issued.
The reported abduction has drawn sharp reactions from the community. Some residents and activists have linked the incident to broader concerns about abductions in Kenya, with rights groups noting that over 80 individuals have been reported missing since last year’s protests, often in connection to political activism. The Kenya National Commission on Human Rights has previously criticized such incidents, urging investigations into alleged security force involvement. In this case, no clear evidence has confirmed police participation, and the government has yet to respond to the specific claims surrounding Kawanjiru’s disappearance.
Local leaders and residents have called for swift action to locate Kawanjiru and ensure his safety. The incident has reignited debates about freedom of expression and the safety of political organizers, particularly in Kiambu, a county already navigating tensions from recent protest-related violence. On the same day, Kikuyu town saw demonstrations turn destructive, with court buildings set alight, highlighting the volatile atmosphere in the region.
As the situation develops, the alleged abduction of Kawanjiru remains a focal point of concern, with community members demanding transparency and accountability. Authorities have not yet provided an official statement, leaving residents anxious for updates on the coordinator’s whereabouts.