MP Peter Salasya Abducted After Dramatic Highway Ambush

Mumias East Member of Parliament Peter Salasya has reportedly been abducted by masked gunmen wielding at least 15 AK-47 rifles in a meticulously orchestrated ambush along the Isiolo-Nanyuki highway.

The brazen attack, which unfolded in the Kisima area, saw the MP’s convoy come under alleged heavy fire, his vehicle’s tires shot out, and his bodyguards disarmed, leaving the outspoken legislator at the mercy of his captors.

Salasya, a vocal 2027 presidential hopeful known for his fiery rhetoric and populist appeal, was reportedly returning from political rallies in Meru and Isiolo, en route to Nanyuki for further engagements, when the nightmare unfolded.

According to a statement issued by the MP on his official X account, a fleet of unidentified vehicles intercepted his convoy in a high-stakes chase, cornering his lead car while his security and sound vehicles trailed behind.

“They shot at my vehicle, aiming directly at me,” Salasya recounted.

“Shortly after, they emerged with at least 15 AK47 rifles and confronted me with a chilling message one I cannot disclose at this time for security reasons.”

The attackers, who claimed to be officers from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), executed what Salasya described as a “well-coordinated operation.”

His lawyer, Kennedy Echesa, confirmed that the rear tire of the MP’s vehicle was deliberately targeted to immobilize it, allowing the assailants to overpower his security detail.

One bodyguard narrowly escaped and aided Salasya in a desperate dash into nearby bushes for cover, but the MP’s freedom was short-lived.

“His bodyguards have been disarmed, and Hon. Salasya has been taken by force,” read a post from Salasya’s X account, sounding an urgent alarm.

“This is a serious threat to his life, and immediate intervention is needed.”

Police authorities have distanced themselves from the incident, denying any involvement and stating that investigations are underway to uncover the motive behind the attack.

However, the audacity of the ambush coupled with the attackers’ use of unmarked vehicles and false claims of DCI affiliation has raised alarming questions about the safety of elected officials and the state of Kenya’s democratic space.

Salasya’s abduction comes on the heels of another harrowing encounter just days prior.

On May 10, the MP narrowly evaded what he described as an attempted arrest by masked men at a Mombasa hotel.

That incident, which saw residents and supporters intervene to thwart the assailants, was condemned by Salasya as a “criminal act disguised as law enforcement.”

The recurrence of such targeted attacks has fueled speculation that the MP’s outspoken criticism of political elites and his ambitious presidential bid may have made him a target of powerful forces.

In his statement, Salasya remained resolute, emphasizing his commitment to peace and progress.

“I have not been mentioning the government in my rallies, and I have stayed true to my call,” he wrote, before issuing a plea for public and official action as he was whisked away to an unknown location.

“Kenya must stand for truth and justice,” he urged, his words echoing across social media platforms.