KENYAN GOVERNMENT ORDERS VETTING OF FOREIGN NATIONALS OVER CANNIBALISM CLAIMS IN WEST POKOT

The Kenyan government has launched a mandatory vetting exercise targeting foreign nationals from Burundi, Rwanda, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), and Uganda’s Wagisu community residing in West Pokot County, following disturbing allegations of cannibalism and illegal organ harvesting.
According to a statement from the county security committee, the decision was prompted by intelligence reports and confessions from suspects currently in custody. The operation is focused on Kapenguria, Makutano, and Bendera towns, where several individuals reportedly live in makeshift structures along the road reserve.
Twelve suspects are already in detention, with authorities saying they confessed to killing and consuming human remains. A court has allowed police to hold them for 21 days to complete investigations.
"The vetting will verify the identities, activities, and legal status of all foreign nationals in the affected areas," the statement said. "This action follows credible confessions and evidence linking certain individuals to inhumane practices."
Authorities have also ordered the demolition of illegal shelters along the highway and suspended a planned protest by youth demanding the release of the suspects. The Kapenguria-Lodwar highway remains under heavy security patrol, with warnings issued against incitement and public disorder.
County Commissioner Joel Wakahiu emphasized that the government’s action was not targeting foreign nationals arbitrarily but was based on the need to uphold public safety.
"We must act decisively when faced with such serious allegations," Wakahiu said. "We are working within the law, and anyone found inciting the public or obstructing investigations will be prosecuted."
The revelations have shocked residents and sparked nationwide concern. However, the government reaffirmed its commitment to regional cooperation and respect for East African citizens' right to movement, emphasizing that the vetting is a security measure specific to the current criminal investigations.
Authorities are calling for calm as investigations continue, urging the public to cooperate and avoid spreading panic or misinformation.