The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested a man over alleged involvement in recruiting Kenyans into the Russian military.
In a statement on Wednesday, February 26, 2026, the DCI revealed the suspect was apprehended in Moyale.
“Detectives based at Moyale Police Station have apprehended 33-year-old Festus Arasa Omwamba, a man who has been on the police radar for his involvement in human trafficking”, the statement read.
According to the DCI, he targeted vulnerable individuals and lured them with promises of fake job opportunities in European countries, before recruiting them to travel to Russia.
“Festus is believed to be a key player in a more extensive human trafficking syndicate that exploits vulnerable individuals by promising them legitimate employment opportunities in European countries. However, upon arrival, these unsuspecting victims find themselves trapped in illegal and perilous jobs, stripping them of their dignity and safety”, the statement added.
The suspect is currently in police custody pending arraignment in court.
This comes at a time when there is growing concern over a number of Kenyans travelling to Russia to join the Russian army.
Additionally, some allegedly get employment opportunities through illegal recruitment channels, after promises of lucrative pay.
Furthermore, the Kenyan Embassy in Moscow warned citizens against travelling to Russia for jobs through unverified channels.
They cautioned that it might limit access to government assistance in case they are stranded.
“The Embassy is working with authorities in both countries to address emerging fraudulent recruitment networks and urges all those seeking jobs abroad to verify before finding themselves in circumstances beyond control,” the statement said.
Regarding the matter, the DCI has assured that it will collaborate with other security agencies to pursue other individuals involved in the sinister activities and take legal actions against them.
The authority has further urged members of the public to contact the detectives through their toll-free number 0800 722 203 (Toll-free) or WhatsApp at 0709 570 000 to report such individuals.
