There was drama when activists Boniface Mwangi, Hussein Khalid and Hanifa Adan presented themselves before the Directorate of Criminal Investigation headquarters for questioning over the ongoing protests against proposed taxes.
They were accompanied by former President of the Supreme Court and Chief Justice Willy Mutunga when they arrived.
The group was however dramatically moved from the DCI for further grilling.
Police said they wanted a humble place to grill the group in connection with the protests against the proposed taxes.
Reports had claimed they had been arrested but Mutunga dismissed the claims.
“I can confirm that I have not been arrested. I, and other lawyers are representing Boniface, Khalid and Adan at the Nairobi Regional Headquarters,” Mutunga said.
The activists said they had learnt they were being sought and decided to present themselves.
Mwangi also sought to know why an abduction attempt was made on him, arguing that he had committed no offence.
“We were almost abducted on Friday so we said instead of getting abducted in the streets we are going to present ourselves to the police. If we have broken any law take us to court but abduction and torture are illegal in this country,” he said.
There was heavy security at the entrance of DCI headquarters along Kiambu Road as the activists arrived.
They were ushered into the premises saying they were seeking answers on why there have been a rising number of abductions since the Finance Bill 20204 protests commenced last week.
They were later driven out of the premises in police cars.
Mutunga said he had appeared to show solidarity, noting that the abductions were in full violation of the law.
“Have you guys read Article 238 of the Constitution? Because if you have, abductions are unconstitutional. The police are supposed to comply with human rights,” he said.
While youth groups had gathered outside the DCI headquarters, officers only allowed the four and their legal representatives to enter the gates.
There are ongoing protests across the country on major Members of Parliament’s offices especially those who voted for bill in the second reading.
There is also a protest over the now increasing abductions of Kenyans believed to be playing a significant role in the anti-Finance Bill protests.
The abductions occur in a similar pattern where a targeted person is suddenly attacked by four or more individuals and bundled into an awaiting car.
The abductees have so far been released after public rage.
The whereabouts of Shad Khalif, one of the top mobilizers of the demonstrations, remain unknown.
Lawyers and activists are demanding their release.
