Families of Kenyans recruited into Russian army demand help

THE families of 35 Kenyans lured into fighting for the Russian army demanded on Thursday that their government take action to bring them home.

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Multiple media investigations have exposed how Russia has enticed men from African countries with promises of lucrative civilian jobs, only to force them into fighting on the front line in Ukraine.

An intelligence report presented to parliament on Wednesday said more than 1000 Kenyans had gone to fight for Russia. While some are ex-soldiers leaving to become mercenaries, many appear to have been tricked by rogue recruitment agencies working with Russian authorities.

Families of the recruits gathered in Nairobi for a protest on Thursday, holding placards with their photos and captions like “bring our son back”.

“We hope to get any information about my brother, dead or alive or injured... At least we can bring closure to this,” said Winnie Rose Wambui.