Statement on the Kidnapping of Turkish Nationals in Kenya

We express deep outrage and condemnation over the recent series of abductions targeting Turkish citizens and a British national in Nairobi, Kenya. On October 18, 2024, masked assailants abducted several individuals in what appears to be a coordinated operation designed to forcibly return them to Turkey, where they face political persecution. One of the abducted, Necdet Seyitoğlu, a British national of Turkish origin, was released after eight hours when he proved his British citizenship. However, four Turkish nationals remain missing, raising concerns for their safety.

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The victims of these kidnappings are reportedly linked to the Hizmet movement, which has been subject to extensive repression by the Turkish government. The abductions occurred in different locations across Nairobi, demonstrating a disturbing level of coordination and suggesting the involvement of foreign actors. These acts are blatant violations of international human rights, especially concerning refugees and asylum seekers. It is reported that the abducted Turkish nationals were registered refugees in Kenya, further compounding the severity of this unlawful operation.

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The involvement of armed, masked men, and the alleged intent to deport these individuals back to Turkey where they are at risk of persecution, torture, or imprisonment, shows a deliberate disregard for the rule of law and Kenya’s international obligations under the 1951 Refugee Convention. This egregious act not only violates the personal rights of the abductees but also undermines Kenya’s sovereignty and the safety of those seeking refuge within its borders.

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We are deeply concerned that this incident is part of a broader pattern of transnational repression carried out by Turkish authorities, where Turkish citizens abroad are systematically targeted, abducted, and forcibly returned to Turkey under the guise of counter-terrorism. Such actions reflect a severe abuse of state power and disregard for human rights and international laws designed to protect individuals from such persecution.

 

Call to Action: We call on the Kenyan government to immediately intervene by launching a full and transparent investigation into the abductions. It is imperative that Kenya:

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1. Ensure the safety and protection of the abducted Turkish nationals and prevent any illegal deportation.

2. Hold accountable any foreign operatives or accomplices involved in this illegal operation.

3. Reaffirm its commitment to upholding international human rights and refugee protections as outlined in treaties such as the 1951 Refugee Convention.

 

In addition, we call on international human rights organizations, including the United Nations and the African Union, to closely monitor this situation and pressure the Kenyan government to protect vulnerable individuals on its soil. The international community must take a strong stand against transnational repression to ensure that Kenya and other host countries remain safe havens for those fleeing persecution.

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Such inhuman and unlawful kidnappings must not be allowed to continue. The lives and safety of innocent individuals are at stake, and the world must act decisively to stop these heinous violations of international law.