Eldama Ravine, Kenya| Authorities in Eldama Ravine have launched investigations into a suspected human trafficking syndicate after intercepting a vehicle transporting 20 women under suspicious circumstances.
The women, who appeared malnourished and lacked valid identification documents, were taken into police custody for further questioning.
According to police sources, the women were discovered in a Toyota Hiace that was flagged for speeding at the Makutano junction along the Nakuru-Eldoret highway.
Upon stopping the vehicle, traffic officers noticed the distressed condition of the passengers, prompting them to intervene. The driver, however, managed to flee the scene, raising further suspicion.
Following the initial discovery, officers booked the incident at the Makutano Police Station before transferring the women to Koibatek Sub-County Police Station in Eldama Ravine Town for further processing.
Police Investigations Underway
Koibatek Sub-County Police Commander Joel Chepkwony confirmed that the women were dressed in buibuis and had no identification cards in their possession.
Detectives suspect they were being transported as part of a larger trafficking operation.
Richard Cheruyot, the Sub-County officer in charge of Criminal Investigations (DCI), revealed that the women are aged between 20 and 25 years and come from various parts of the country.
Seven of them are from Mombasa, four from Kakamega, two from Kwale, two from Nairobi, and one each from Elburgon, Voi, Meru, Kitale, and Nyandarua.
“The circumstances surrounding their transportation remain unclear, and we are working to uncover the details of the case and identify those involved,” said Cheruyot.
Tracing the Origins and Destination
As part of the ongoing investigation, law enforcement officers are liaising with the National Transport and Safety Authority (NTSA) to establish the ownership of the intercepted vehicle.
Authorities are also working to determine the final destination of the women and whether they were being trafficked across regional or national borders.
The rescued women will remain at the police station as investigations continue. Officers are also searching for the escaped driver and any individuals linked to the suspected trafficking network.
This incident highlights growing concerns over human trafficking in the region, with authorities urging the public to report any suspicious activities to help combat the illicit trade.
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