Activist Davis Lichuma has been located at Kenyatta National Hospital (KNH) after being reported missing during the protests in Nairobi on June 25, 2026.
Human rights organizations revealed that Lichuma was found in serious condition on Sunday evening, June 28, while undergoing treatment at the hospital. Activists expressed concern, noting signs of torture and physical assault, suggesting he had been abducted during the demonstrations.
This incident has reignited worries about enforced disappearances and police brutality associated with the recent anti-government protests.
Human rights activist Hussein Khalid confirmed Lichuma’s discovery but expressed alarm over his condition. “After our press conference this morning demanding the immediate release of comrade Lichuma or facing widespread demonstrations, we can now confirm that he has been found, but his health is concerning,” Khalid stated.
He also mentioned that activists are coordinating efforts to transfer him to a private hospital for specialized care.
The Social Justice Centres Working Group corroborated Lichuma’s status but noted he was unable to speak upon being found. “While we are relieved that he is alive, we remain deeply troubled by his condition. At the time of discovery, Lichuma could not communicate,” the organization stated.
He has since been moved to Nairobi Women’s Hospital for advanced treatment. The organization has called for an independent investigation into the circumstances of his disappearance and the injuries he reportedly sustained while missing.
Police are currently investigating the claims surrounding the protests. Rights groups allege that Lichuma was among several activists detained during the June 25 demonstrations, which marked the second anniversary of the 2024 Gen Z protests. Activists reported that some demonstrators were later abandoned in various areas of Nairobi after enduring beatings and torture.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHRC) previously noted that three activists who went missing during the protests were found abandoned in Nairobi’s Hurlingham area, while four others remained unaccounted for as of Sunday evening.
The protests resulted in numerous arrests nationwide. Interior Cabinet Secretary Kipchumba Murkomen stated that police apprehended 355 individuals for offenses such as vandalism, robbery, and obstruction of roads. Nairobi saw the highest number of arrests, totaling 161, followed by Kajiado and Kiambu counties.
The National Police Service (NPS) confirmed that a missing person report for Davis Lichuma had been filed at the Central Police Station in Nairobi. In a statement released on Sunday, the police announced an investigation into the case and encouraged the public to share any information regarding enforced disappearances, torture, or human rights violations.
“The National Police Service has acknowledged the allegations circulating in mainstream and social media about enforced disappearances and torture,” the statement declared. “Additionally, we recognize receipt of a missing person report for Davis Lichuma at Central Police Station in Nairobi.”
The police committed to investigating all reports “thoroughly, professionally, impartially, and expeditiously.” NPS spokesperson Muchiri Nyaga emphasized the police service’s dedication to accountability, transparency, and respect for constitutional rights.
However, activists and advocacy groups continue to accuse security agencies of targeting protesters and government critics through unlawful arrests and enforced disappearances. The Social Justice Centres Working Group challenged the authorities, demanding answers regarding Lichuma’s abduction, the location of his detention, and those responsible for his alleged torture.
“We will not tolerate silence, cover-ups, or excuses. An injury to one is an injury to all,” the group asserted.
