DCI Uncovers Trafficking of Primary School Boy to Libya

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations has reported the arrest of a human trafficker involved in the case of an 18-year-old male, who disappeared at age 14 and was later found to be held captive in Libya. Efforts by his family to secure his release involved a significant ransom payment, which did not yield results until he escaped to Tunisia in November 2023.

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has reported the apprehension of a human trafficker linked to the case of an 18-year-old male who went missing four years ago. Initially, the victim was just 14 years old and was attending Mandera DEB Primary School at the time of his disappearance in 2021. According to the DCI, his parents conducted a frantic search and discovered he was being held captive in Libya.

In their efforts to secure his release, the victim’s family paid Ksh2.4 million as ransom to two individuals in Somalia. However, despite this substantial payment, their attempts proved unsuccessful, and the victim remained in captivity. The DCI stated, “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.”

After four years, on March 12, 2025, the victim contacted his mother from a hospital in Tunisia, revealing he had sustained gunshot wounds to both legs. The reasons and circumstances surrounding the shooting were not disclosed. Subsequently, it was learned that he, along with two other Kenyans, had escaped from captivity in Libya to Tunisia in November 2023.

The DCI noted, “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.” Through forensic intelligence, ATPU detectives arrested the suspect implicated in the trafficking.

While the DCI has not provided details regarding the suspect’s arrest or whether the victim has reunited with his family, the suspect was presented for prosecution at the Mandera Law Courts on March 14, 2025. The case is set to be mentioned on April 4, 2025, following a 21-day custodial order. DCI stated, “Bilal Shukri Ahmed has today been presented for prosecution by officers from the Anti-Terrorist Police Unit (ATPU).”

This case highlights the serious issue of human trafficking, particularly involving minors. The DCI’s actions reflect the ongoing efforts to combat such criminal activities. Despite the tragic circumstances faced by the victim and his family, the eventual rescue and apprehension of the suspect signify progress towards justice and prevention of future trafficking incidents.

Original Source: www.kenyans.co.ke