Kenyan police are investigating the reported disappearance of former Foreign Minister Raphael Tuju, amid claims he may have been abducted. According to Tuju's family, the ex-minister and his driver went missing as they were on their way to an evening radio interview on Saturday. Police said his vehicle was found abandoned with its hazard lights on along a road in Karen, an upmarket suburb of the capital, Nairobi. They said they could not reach him as his phone was switched off.
Tuju, who has served in several high-profile government roles, is embroiled in a long-running legal battle concerning the auction and takeover of his properties over an unsettled bank loan. Recently, he alleged that dozens of police officers raided his property in Karen, evicted his staff and security guards, and took control of his business premises. Tuju claims that powerful officials are attempting to seize his property without legal justification and that half a million dollars (£11m) is owed to lenders.
His lawyer Paul Nyamodi informed local media that Tuju had previously filed a police report regarding suspicious activities, including being followed by an unmarked vehicle before his disappearance. The authorities have convened a specialized team to handle the investigation and are working alongside other government agencies to locate Tuju. They urged the public to provide any information that could assist in tracing the former minister.
Notably, allegations from opposition figures, including Governor James Orengo, suggest that Tuju has been 'kidnapped.' Lawmaker Otiende Amollo stated that they are pressing the authorities for answers, emphasizing the need for police action to protect Tuju and address any potential abduction related to his status.
Tuju's disappearance raises serious concerns in light of his recent legal disputes, prompting fears among his colleagues and the general public.
Tuju, who has served in several high-profile government roles, is embroiled in a long-running legal battle concerning the auction and takeover of his properties over an unsettled bank loan. Recently, he alleged that dozens of police officers raided his property in Karen, evicted his staff and security guards, and took control of his business premises. Tuju claims that powerful officials are attempting to seize his property without legal justification and that half a million dollars (£11m) is owed to lenders.
His lawyer Paul Nyamodi informed local media that Tuju had previously filed a police report regarding suspicious activities, including being followed by an unmarked vehicle before his disappearance. The authorities have convened a specialized team to handle the investigation and are working alongside other government agencies to locate Tuju. They urged the public to provide any information that could assist in tracing the former minister.
Notably, allegations from opposition figures, including Governor James Orengo, suggest that Tuju has been 'kidnapped.' Lawmaker Otiende Amollo stated that they are pressing the authorities for answers, emphasizing the need for police action to protect Tuju and address any potential abduction related to his status.
Tuju's disappearance raises serious concerns in light of his recent legal disputes, prompting fears among his colleagues and the general public.
