The Kenyan government has confirmed the rescue of yet another national who had been irregularly conscripted to serve in the Russian military.
Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary (PS) Korir Sing’Oei on Tuesday announced that Kevin Kariuki Nduma is the latest Kenyan to be freed from the conflict zone and is on his way back home. Nduma becomes the third case to be handled by Kenyan authorities in recent weeks.
“A third Kenyan, Kevin Kariuki Nduma, irregularly conscripted to serve in the Russian military, is on his way back home. I commend our Mission in Moscow for the effort to rescue and repatriate Kenyans caught in this unfortunate and dangerous situation,” Sing’Oei stated.
The PS urged Kenyans to exercise caution when seeking overseas employment opportunities. He advised job seekers to verify foreign contracts and consult the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, especially through the Diaspora Affairs department, before making commitments.
The government has been grappling with rising cases of Kenyans lured abroad with promises of lucrative jobs only to find themselves trafficked or forced into military service. Authorities have repeatedly warned against fraudulent recruitment schemes targeting vulnerable youth.
In September, Sing’Oei announced the repatriation of three Kenyans—Shaquille Wambo, Pius Mwika, and Derick Njaga—who had been caught in similar circumstances. Reports also indicate that some returnees sustained injuries and are undergoing treatment.
The issue has gained further attention after the case of Evans Kibet, a Kenyan athlete arrested by the Ukrainian army after surrendering from the Russian side. Kibet revealed that he was duped into signing Russian documents after being promised a job, only to be taken to a military camp and deployed to the frontlines.
Adding to the concern, a recent raid in Athi River uncovered a suspected recruitment network where 21 Kenyans were allegedly being prepared for travel to Russia. Authorities seized recruitment materials, job letters, and travel documents during the operation.
Nduma’s safe return underscores the urgent need for vigilance among Kenyans considering overseas jobs, as human trafficking and irregular recruitment linked to the Russia-Ukraine war continue to pose significant risks.
