Kenyan Man Held in Abu Dhabi for Weeks Without Explanation

A Kenyan man has been held in Abu Dhabi for nearly three weeks, with authorities yet to explain the reasons for his detention.
Josephat Chege Kung’u, from Kiganjo in Thika, worked as a cleaner for Super Hygiene, a private company in Abu Dhabi. He was arrested on 19 April while off duty.
Friends say they had spent time with him earlier that evening, but he did not return to his accommodation. His absence initially went unnoticed, but concern grew when colleagues were unable to contact him in the following days.
After repeated enquiries, they were informed that he was being held at a Criminal Investigation Department facility. Authorities have not disclosed the grounds for his detention.
This lack of information has caused distress among his family and colleagues, who have received no official explanation. Unverified claims circulating among acquaintances suggest the case may involve a suspected drug-related offence, but no formal statement has confirmed this.
Chege’s family in Kenya has sought information from both Kenyan and Emirati authorities. They are trying to establish his legal status and ensure he has access to legal representation.
His colleagues in Abu Dhabi have also appealed for clarity from officials. The case highlights concerns about the treatment of migrant workers in the Gulf region. Legal procedures can be difficult to follow from abroad, and communication with families is often limited.





