Billy Mwangi is one of these five. The 24-year-old was dropped off by his alleged captors in central Kenya, 75 kilometers (46 miles) from his hometown of Embo, to threaten.
Billy’s father, Gerald Mwangi Krecha, told the BBC his son was in shock.
“The guy hasn’t shared much,” he said. “All I can say is that he wasn’t his usual self when he came in. He looked in shock.”
Billy, a college student who was an outspoken critic of the government on social media, Disappeared on 21 December 2024 at a barber shop in Embo.
According to witnesses, hooded men arrived in a Toyota Fielder and a double-cabin pickup, bundled her into one of the vehicles and sped off.
Within hours, her family’s worst fears began to unfold.
“Most weekends, we watch football together. His club is Chelsea; mine is Arsenal,” Gerald said.
He calls Billy to discuss a soccer match on the evening of his disappearance, only to find that his son’s phone is switched off.
The owner of the barbershop later reported the kidnapping to him, prompting a manhunt.
Billy’s mother collapsed when she heard the news and the weeks that followed were agonizing for the family.
As soon as it was discovered, the cat was taken to the hospital for a routine checkup. His family says he is still recovering from the shock, but his release brings some relief.
Like many people who have resurfaced after alleged abductions, Billy has said little about his ordeal, perhaps out of fear.
