Kenyan police said they rescued 22 people from an alleged human trafficking ring that was secretly funneling citizens to Russia to be deployed in the war against Ukraine.

The operation followed an intelligence-led raid on a residential apartment in the Athi River area on the outskirts of Nairobi. Investigators seized recruitment materials, travel documents, and job offer letters during the raid.

One suspect accused of coordinating the trips was arrested and brought to court, where he was ordered detained for 19 days as police pursue further investigations.

Officials said the man had allegedly arranged for the victims to travel to Russia in September and October.

According to detectives, the victims revealed they had signed contracts with an unnamed overseas employment agency and were promised jobs in Russia.

They had been instructed to pay up to Ksh2,331,000 for visas, travel, accommodation, and other expenses, with some already depositing as much as Ksh194,250.

Authorities said the recruits were being processed for Russia and ultimately intended to be deployed in Ukraine, echoing reports of similar schemes targeting citizens from Turkmenistan, Cuba, Sri Lanka, and several African nations.

The development comes amid growing alarm over Kenyans lured abroad under the guise of employment, only to end up as mercenaries in Russia’s war.

A young Kenyan athlete was captured by Ukrainian forces and claimed he had been tricked into joining the Russian army. “I am Kenyan, don’t shoot,” he reportedly pleaded upon capture.

Kenya’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs said it is investigating reports that other citizens trafficked to Russia may now be prisoners of war in Ukraine. Ukrainian officials have confirmed that combatants from Africa, including Somalia, Sierra Leone, and Togo, are being held in POW camps.

The Russian Embassy in Nairobi, however, rejected reports linking Moscow to recruitment efforts in Kenya.

In a statement, the embassy said a Russian national questioned by Kenyan police had no ties to the Russian government and denied claims of official involvement in trafficking or conscription.

“As of today, the Embassy has no official information from the local authorities about any claims against the Russian citizen or his activities.”

Despite these denials, law enforcement agencies in Kenya warn that a disturbing trend is emerging.

“The diplomatic mission remains open to constructive interaction with Kenyan state authorities on issues concerning the stay of Russian citizens in the Republic of Kenya, including ensuring their compliance with both local and Russian law, and will continue its work to protect the rights and interests of Russian citizens.”

 Many of those who return from Russia come back injured, traumatized, or do not return at all.

Authorities urged Kenyans to be cautious about overseas job offers, as investigations continue into the possible sale of citizens into slavery for the Russian army.

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