DCI Uncovers Trafficking Case of Missing Boy Rescued Years Later
The DCI has arrested a human trafficker involved in trafficking an 18-year-old male who disappeared four years ago. The victim’s family paid a substantial ransom only to discover their son remained captive in Libya. After four years, the victim contacted his family from a hospital in Tunisia, revealing he had escaped. The trafficker has been charged and the case is set for a court hearing.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested a human trafficker responsible for the trafficking of an 18-year-old male who had been missing for four years. The victim was just 14 years old and a student at Mandera DEB Primary School when he disappeared in 2021. His family undertook an extensive search and later learned that he was held captive in Libya, leading them to pay Ksh2.4 million in ransom for his release, which ultimately failed.
In a statement, DCI highlighted the family’s struggle: “Upon his disappearance, his parents launched a desperate search for their son. Their worst fears were confirmed when they discovered that Ali Noor was being held captive in Libya. In a bid to secure his release, the family paid a ransom of Ksh2.35 million to two individuals. Despite their immense sacrifice, the parents’ efforts proved futile, as their son remained in captivity.”
On March 12, 2025, after four years, the victim contacted his mother from a hospital in Tunisia, revealing he had been shot in both legs. Details regarding the circumstances of the shooting remain undisclosed. The investigation revealed that the victim escaped along with other captives, including two Kenyans, from Libya to Tunisia in November 2023.
The DCI confirmed, “It was revealed that the victim had been trafficked to Libya before escaping in November 2023. He fled to Tunisia alongside other captives, including two fellow Kenyans from Mandera, who are currently caring for him in the said hospital.” Following further inquiries by the Anti-Terrorist Police Unit (ATPU), a key suspect involved in the trafficking was apprehended but details regarding the suspect’s arrest remain unprovided.
The suspect, identified as Bilal Shukri Ahmed, was presented for prosecution at the Mandera Law Courts on March 14. The DCI noted that the case is scheduled for mention on April 4, 2025, after obtaining a 21-day custodial order.
This unsettling case of human trafficking highlights the dangers faced by vulnerable individuals, particularly youth. The DCI’s efforts to apprehend the trafficker and secure justice for the victim are commendable. The family’s ordeal underscores the harsh realities of trafficking, while the victim’s eventual escape offers a glimmer of hope in a deeply troubling situation.
Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke
