Kenya’s Raphael Tuju arrested after “Staged disappearance” claim by Police
Former Kenyan Foreign Minister Raphael Tuju has been arrested shortly after being reported missing, an incident that initially sparked fears he had been abducted.
Director of Criminal Investigations Mohamed Amin said at a press briefing that Tuju had actually remained at his residence throughout, describing the situation as a “carefully staged disappearance rather than a genuine case of abduction.”
Moments before his arrest, Tuju had told Citizen TV that he went into hiding after noticing he was being trailed by an unmarked vehicle.
He has been involved in a prolonged legal dispute over the auction and takeover of his Nairobi properties linked to an unpaid bank loan.
According to Amin, Tuju’s actions appeared to be a deliberate attempt to mislead the public and create unnecessary sympathy while casting doubt on the credibility of the National Police Service. He stressed that providing false information to authorities is considered a serious offence.
Tuju, however, explained in his interview with Citizen TV that he changed route after realising he was being followed, and later abandoned his vehicle once he believed he had evaded those tailing him.
He also expressed concern for his safety and that of his family, saying they had been deeply traumatised. He added that he felt fortunate, noting that “many Kenyans are in unmarked graves,” and thanked supporters, including opposition figures who had stood by him. He said fear of past abductions and killings influenced his decision not to seek police protection.
Earlier, police had launched investigations into his reported disappearance after his family said he and his driver went missing while heading to a scheduled evening radio interview on Saturday. His abandoned vehicle was later found in Karen, an upscale Nairobi suburb, with hazard lights on, while his phone was switched off.
Tuju has recently accused authorities of targeting his property in Karen, alleging that police officers raided the premises, removed staff and security, and took control of the business site. He claims powerful individuals are behind efforts to seize his assets, though the government has not responded to these allegations.
The ongoing court case involves lenders seeking to recover over $15 million in debt linked to properties owned by his company, Dari Limited. He has made several unsuccessful attempts to halt the auction but recently secured temporary court orders preventing the transfer of the property pending further hearings.
His reported disappearance had earlier triggered political reactions, with opposition figures suggesting he may have been abducted. Governor James Orengo described him as “kidnapped,” while MP Otiende Amollo called on authorities to urgently clarify his whereabouts and ensure his safety.
About The Author
