The family of Enock Chebon Chelimo, a businessman and church elder from Baringo, Kenya, has filed an urgent High Court application seeking to compel the police to reveal Chelimo's whereabouts. Chelimo went missing on October 31, 2026, after heavily armed officers in three cream-coloured Land Cruisers took him from his home in Kampi Samaki. His relatives, represented by lawyer Danstan Omari, are requesting that the Inspector General of Police, Douglas Kanja, and the Interior Cabinet Secretary, Kipchumba Murkomen, appear in court to explain Chelimo's disappearance.
According to the family's affidavit, Chelimo's disappearance followed alleged threats from local authorities over an AK-47 rifle, which the family denies he owned or knew about. The incident is linked to a disarmament operation in the Marigat area. The family had sought the local chief's intervention after the threats escalated. On November 4, they received a phone call suggesting they surrender the alleged firearm in exchange for Chelimo's release, sparking suspicion that security officers are holding him.
The urgent application asks the court to order the police to either produce Chelimo by November 10, 2026, or disclose his detention location. The court filing names the Inspector General of Police, the Interior Cabinet Secretary, and the Director of Public Prosecutions as respondents, with the Independent Policing Oversight Authority and the Attorney General listed as interested parties. Chelimo's son, Bernard Chepyator Chebon, alleges that his father's disappearance was preceded by threats from local authorities.
Chelimo's relatives claim that police stations in Marigat, Kabarnet, and Kampi Samaki refused to record their statements when they attempted to report the disappearance. Another son, Nicolas Kipsang Chebon, has written to Cabinet Secretary Murkomen requesting assistance in establishing his father's whereabouts and ensuring his safety. The family's efforts to seek help have been met with resistance, raising concerns about the circumstances surrounding Chelimo's disappearance.
The case has raised concerns about police conduct and the safety of civilians in the region. The Independent Policing Oversight Authority's involvement is expected to ensure that the police's actions are scrutinized. The court's decision will be crucial in determining the next steps in the search for Chelimo and holding those responsible accountable.
Human rights groups have expressed concern about the increasing number of enforced disappearances in Kenya. The case highlights the need for greater transparency and accountability within the police force. The court's ruling will be closely watched by human rights advocates and the general public.
The family remains hopeful that the court will grant their application and compel the police to reveal Chelimo's location. They are anxiously waiting for any news about his safety and whereabouts. The case is ongoing, with the court yet to make a decision on the matter.
Key points
- The family's court application seeks to compel the police to disclose Chelimo's location and produce him in court.
- Chelimo's disappearance is linked to a disarmament operation in the Marigat area and alleged threats from local authorities.
- The case has raised concerns about police conduct and the safety of civilians in the region.
