The Homa Bay County Government has interdicted Human Resources Officer Beatrice Mercy Akugo following reports that she was involved in the abduction and assault of People Daily journalist Habil Onyango.

In a statement issued on Monday, September 15, 2025, the county said the interdiction was “a standard procedural measure to allow for a thorough, impartial, and unimpeded investigation into these allegations.”

“This decision follows grave accusations that Ms Akugo is facing allegations of involvement in the abduction, assault, and intimidation of a journalist. The alleged details of the incident are abhorrent and include the journalist being abducted, held against his will, physically assaulted, and threatened,” the statement read in part.

Atieno Otieno, the Chief Officer of Public Communication and Government Spokesperson, condemned all forms of violence, intimidation, and criminal activity, particularly those targeting members of the press.

“The Homa Bay County Government wishes to make it unequivocally clear that it condemns in the strongest terms possible any form of violence, intimidation, or criminal activity, especially that which targets members of the press. Journalism is a cornerstone of our democracy, and the safety of journalists is non-negotiable,” Otieno stated

“Any officer who misuses their position to perpetrate wrongdoing will face stern consequences. We assure the public and journalists in Homa Bay of our unwavering commitment to the rule of law and accountability, and any individual found guilty of these heinous acts will face the full force of the law, in addition to stringent internal disciplinary measures.”

The decision came hours after the Media Council of Kenya (MCK) condemned the attack on Onyango, which occurred on September 14, 2025. The council described the incident as “a grave threat to press freedom, journalistic integrity, and the rule of law in Kenya.”

According to MCK, Onyango was lured to a Homa Bay hotel, ambushed by thugs, and assaulted, causing facial injuries. His devices were confiscated, data deleted, and a fake apology posted online to discredit him.

“Seizing a moment of distraction, he escaped via a passing boda boda motorcycle. The incident involves serious crimes—assault, abduction, and property interference—that demand urgent action beyond a routine entry,” MCK stated.

MCK linked the attack to Onyango’s exposé on a local blog, which revealed how Homa Bay residents are being swindled through fake job schemes. The council warned that “such thuggery in retaliation undermines truth and public accountability. Aggrieved parties should approach the Media Complaints Commission, not resort to violence.”

“This incident signals a dangerous erosion of democratic norms, fostering fear over facts. The MCK condemns this act and calls on Kenyans, civil society, and global partners to denounce it,” MCK stated.

The council demanded swift, transparent investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations, Independent Policing Oversight Authority, and Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions.