Boniface Mwangi arrested in Machakos. Kenyan human rights activist Boniface Mwangi was arrested on Saturday evening under unclear circumstances. Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reportedly stormed his home in Lukenya, Machakos County, and took him into custody.
His wife, Njeri Mwangi, shared the news on X. She said officers raided their home, known as “Courage Base,” without presenting proper documentation or a warrant.
According to Njeri, the detectives cited terrorism and arson as the reasons for the arrest. They also seized Mwangi’s phones and other electronic gadgets. Moments later, they drove him to the DCI headquarters in Nairobi.
She described the situation as shocking and said the family remained uninformed about his legal status. Njeri urged authorities to respect due process and release her husband immediately.
The arrest comes just one day after Mwangi and Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire, along with seven civil society organizations, filed a case at the East African Court of Justice.
In the petition, they accused Tanzanian authorities of gross human rights violations. These include enforced disappearance, torture, sexual abuse, illegal detention, and unlawful deportation.
The group is demanding justice and accountability. Each petitioner is seeking at least USD 1 million (approximately KSh 130 million) in compensation. They are also calling for rehabilitation and public apologies from the governments of Tanzania, Uganda, and Kenya.
Mwangi previously described their ordeal as “evil” and politically driven. He said they were targeted for speaking the truth and defending human rights.
Now, his sudden arrest has sparked fears of retaliation. Human rights defenders are calling for transparency, due process, and an end to intimidation.
