The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has taken over investigations into allegations of human organ trafficking at Mediheal Hospital in Eldoret.
In a statement on Tuesday, April 22, the DCI revealed that the Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) would now lead the investigations, taking over from various regional offices where initial reports had been filed.
"The Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) of the DCI has taken over for investigation, the case where Mediheal Hospital is implicated in the trafficking of human organs harvested at its Fertility and Transplant Centre in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu county," the statement read.
The DCI explained that to ensure a coordinated approach and thorough investigation, TOCU will consolidate all evidence and testimonies.
"Whereas a number of such cases have been reported at various police stations and DCI offices across the North Rift region, TOCU takes over to harmonize all reports and statements previously recorded, record fresh statements from victims, suspects and anyone with relevant information, as well as employ forensic analysis for a painstaking probe," the statement added.
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Additionally, the DCI has urged any individuals with relevant information about the matter to come forward and record their statements.
"Any persons (victims or otherwise) who may have information that could help in the highlighted matter are, therefore, called upon to record their statements with the Head of TOCU at the offices held at DCI Headquarters, Block B.
"The DCI remains committed to conducting investigations with utmost professionalism, with a view to deliver timely justice to both victims and perpetrators of crime," the statement concluded.
This new development comes barely a week after President William Ruto suspended Swarup Mishra from his position as chair of the Kenya BioVax Institute.
In a statement on Friday, April 18, State House Spokesperson Hussein Mohamed confirmed the President’s decision, citing the gravity of the allegations.
The suspension follows mounting concerns over kidney transplant procedures conducted at Mediheal Hospital and Fertility Centre in Eldoret, a facility founded by Dr. Mishra.
“President William Ruto has today suspended, with immediate effect, Dr Swarup Mishra as chair of the Kenya BioVax institute.
“The suspension shall remain in force pending the outcome of investigations into serious allegations of unethical and illegal activities involving kidney transplant procedures at Mediheal Hospital and Fertility Centre in Eldoret,” the statement read.
