Families of Kenyans reportedly drawn into Russia’s military operations are urging the government to step in, citing concerns over deception, forced service, and possible endangerment. Relatives say they are living in fear, with some having had no contact with their loved ones for several months.
At a media gathering at Jeevanjee Gardens in Nairobi on Thursday, Peter Kamau, whose brother is among those recruited, described the emotional toll on families.
“These are the relatives of our sons and brothers held in Russia, or rather recruited into the Russian military. Many of these people here have not spoken to their children for over four months now. This leaves us with lots of questions on their welfare. How are they? Could they have been killed? Could they be in Ukrainian prisons?” he said.
Kamau explained that their plans to deliver petitions directly to government offices and the Russian embassy have been blocked due to police clearance issues.
“We had met here to do a procession to the Russian embassy and also to government offices so that we could present the petitions. Unfortunately, due to technical and legal issues, we have not gotten clearance from the police, so we cannot proceed,” he said.
The families are calling for Parliament and government agencies to step up diplomatic efforts, provide consular support, and prioritize the return of affected Kenyans.
Their appeal follows revelations in Parliament by Majority Leader Kimani Ichung’wah, who said intelligence reports uncovered networks allegedly targeting Kenyans with promises of well-paying jobs abroad, only to redirect them into military service.
According to Ichung’wah, more than 1,000 Kenyans have been recruited, with some sent to combat zones while others are missing, detained, or hospitalised.
Kamau said families support calls for thorough investigations and justice against those running the recruitment networks.
“These networks promised high salaries, bonuses, and even Russian citizenship to lure recruits, only for many to be redirected into military training and frontline deployment, some at gunpoint,” he said.
Despite months of uncertainty, families remain determined to secure the safe return of their relatives and hope the government will act promptly once their petitions are formally submitted.
