Ichung'wah Reveals Corrupt Officials' Role in Trafficking Over 1,000 Kenyans to Fight in Russia's Ukraine War

These individuals, including officers from immigration, criminal investigations, the National Employment Authority, and even some in diplomatic missions like the embassy in Moscow, have allegedly facilitated the scheme by providing visas, overlooking red flags, and enabling illegal departures. Many victims, often former security personnel or jobless youth, are promised high-paying security guard roles with salaries up to Ksh 350,000 monthly, bonuses, and even citizenship—only to be funneled into frontline combat after just three weeks of basic training.

The trafficking network operates through fake recruitment agencies that charge victims exorbitant fees exceeding Ksh 1.6 million. Initial routes via Jomo Kenyatta International Airport were abandoned due to increased scrutiny, shifting to paths through neighboring countries like South Africa and Uganda. Joint probes by the National Intelligence Service and Directorate of Criminal Investigations have led to frozen bank accounts, seized passports, contracts, and other evidence, with raids uncovering the scale of the deception and several suspects now under investigation. Tragically, reports indicate at least one Kenyan death, dozens hospitalized or missing, some repatriated traumatized, and others still trapped on the battlefield.

Ichung'wah has demanded full accountability, insisting no official involved will escape justice and that ministries must identify and punish the culprits to prevent government offices from being abused for such crimes. He urged job seekers to avoid shady agencies and use only licensed channels, warning that rogue promises lead to maiming, death, or lifelong trauma for families. Ongoing efforts aim to rescue those still ensnared and dismantle the network entirely.