This archive report was first published on 20 June 2021.
On June 20, 2021, a dramatic rescue operation unfolded in Kayole, Nairobi, as detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) found a 23-year-old woman, Hafsa Mohammed, hidden in a water tank in Matopeni estate.
According to the DCI, Hafsa was kidnapped on Tuesday from her clothing shop in Kamukunji by a criminal gang demanding a ransom of Sh5 million in exchange for her freedom.
A video of a tortured Hafsa went viral on social media, prompting Kenyans to call on authorities to rescue her and bring her kidnappers to justice.
"Hafsa, who appeared tortured, begged her family to meet the demands of her tormentors, for her life to be spared," the DCI stated. "Following an elaborate operation conducted by detectives from Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau and the Special Service Unit, Hafsa was rescued today morning."
During the rescue operation, a 24-year-old suspect was arrested, and Hafsa was immediately rushed to hospital for medical attention.
The DCI issued a stern warning to anyone harboring intentions of committing such a heinous crime, stating that no efforts would be spared in their pursuit.
