(In Kenya) False Claims of Boniface Mwangi’s Abduction Sparks Outrage, Debunked as Deepfake Misinformation

 

A viral social media post claiming that Kenyan activist Boniface Mwangi was abducted from his Lukenya home by unidentified Swahili-speaking men who fled toward Namanga has ignited widespread outrage and concern across Kenya. The alarming report, which initially gained traction online, heightened fears due to Mwangi’s history of activism and a previous abduction in 2025 in Tanzania, where he endured torture before being deported to Kenya alongside Ugandan activist Agather Atuhaire. However, prominent human rights organizations, including Amnesty International Kenya and the Law Society of Kenya, have since debunked the story, labeling it a fabricated deepfake misinformation campaign designed to mislead the public.

These groups have urged citizens to exercise caution and verify information through credible sources before sharing, emphasizing the dangers of unconfirmed reports. The false narrative appears to exploit the public’s recent memories of Mwangi’s real ordeal in Tanzania, stirring panic and confusion. As a vocal critic of government policies and a leading figure in Kenya’s activist community, Mwangi remains a target for such disinformation efforts. Rights organizations continue to call for vigilance to prevent the spread of misleading claims that could undermine public trust and safety.

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