Makueni Senator Dan Maanzo has issued a strong appeal to Kenyan citizens to actively participate in curbing the increasing cases of abductions in the country.

Speaking during an interview on a local TV station on May 29, 2025, Maanzo called on the public to identify and apprehend suspected abductors and hand them over to the authorities, citing the government’s repeated denials of involvement in such cases.

Senator Maanzo expressed deep frustration over the government’s refusal to acknowledge any role in the abductions, a stance that many Kenyans see as a barrier to justice.

“This is not the first time abductions have been denied. It is high time the public apprehends abductors and presents them to DCI,” Maanzo said.

He noted that despite the denial from authorities, abductions continue unabated, leaving communities vulnerable and families desperate for answers.

His statement was a clear call for citizens to take matters into their own hands amid perceived government inaction.

Public urged to act

During the interview, Maanzo urged Kenyans to be vigilant and courageous in protecting their communities.

He stressed the importance of collective responsibility in the fight against enforced disappearances.

“The cure for abductions is to let the public arrest these abductors, now that the police have denied involvement,” he said emphatically.

He further urged people to mobilise in large numbers to safeguard anyone at risk and ensure perpetrators are handed over to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) for proper legal action.

“Let us not wait any longer for those in power to act. If the authorities deny involvement and fail to protect us, then it is our duty as citizens to arrest the abductors and hand them over to the law. Together, we can stop this menace.”

Koimburi incident

Maanzo also referenced the recent Koimburi abduction case as a clear example of the dangers facing Kenyans.

He lamented the lack of swift action following the disappearance of several individuals in the area, emphasising the need for public intervention.

“We have had incidents like the Koimburi abduction, where people were taken, and there has been little response from the authorities. The public must stand up to these criminals because waiting for official action has not worked,” he stated.

Many Kenyans have welcomed the idea of community involvement, seeing it as a practical step in the absence of effective government intervention. Others, however, caution against potential risks.

Legal experts have raised concerns about the possibility of vigilante justice, which could lead to wrongful arrests, abuse, or clashes with law enforcement. They advise that any public action must remain within the bounds of the law to protect citizens’ rights and maintain order.

Senator Dan Maanzo’s outspoken remarks highlight the rising frustration among Kenyans over the handling of abduction cases. His appeal for public vigilance reflects the desperation of communities seeking safety and justice.

As the debate unfolds, the spotlight remains on the government to enhance transparency and accountability in addressing enforced disappearances. Meanwhile, Maanzo’s message serves as a reminder that Kenyans are increasingly unwilling to wait for official solutions and are ready to take action to protect their own.