MUHURI Demands Probe Into Alleged Assault on Lamu Residents

Kenya, 30 May 2026 - Human rights organisation Muslims for Human Rights (Muhuri) has called for an urgent investigation into an alleged security operation in Lamu East that reportedly left at least 16 residents injured.

In a statement issued by Muhuri accused armed men dressed in combat gear of storming homes on Friday at Siyu Island in the early hours of the morning and assaulting residents.

The rights group claimed the operation was carried out by masked individuals carrying assault rifles, whom it suspects may have been members of Kenya's security special forces.

"At least 16 people from Siyu Island in Lamu East have been brutalized by people they can't identify," Muhuri said.

According to the organisation, the incident occurred at around 5am when residents were awakened by gunshots and commotion.

"Masked thugs in combat gear, wielding high-grade assault rifles, believed to be officers from the special forces, invaded civilian homes. They dragged innocent Kenyans from their beds and whipped them indiscriminately," the statement said.

Muhuri condemned the alleged operation, describing it as a violation of human rights and the rule of law.

The organisation said it had sought clarification from local police commanders but claimed they were unaware of the operation.

"We have confronted the area police boss but he claims total ignorance of the operation. We reject this cowardly evasion. If the police chief doesn't know, then who is commanding these beasts?" Muhuri said.