Festus Omwamba, a man suspected of involvement in human trafficking, claims he surrendered to Kenyan police in Moyale after receiving death threats from Russian nationals. The Kahawa court has ruled that a prior High Court order bars his arrest but allows questioning. Prosecutors oppose his release on bail to protect him and continue the investigation.
Festus Omwamba, a 33-year-old owner of Global Face Human Resources, is the main suspect in an international human trafficking network that has led at least 1,000 Kenyans to join the Russian army to fight in the Ukraine war. Upon arriving at court yesterday, he appeared cheerful, greeting journalists outside and inside, despite facing charges that could result in a 30-year prison sentence or a Sh30 million fine if convicted.
The lead prosecutor, through an affidavit by Police Constable Robi Stella, stated opposition to bail to prevent Omwamba from tampering with evidence. “Investigation is still ongoing, and the accused may interfere with the process if released. Rescued victims may be threatened, injured, or coerced not to testify if the suspect is released,” the DCI said. They also emphasized that detention is the best way to protect Omwamba from the death threats he claims from Russian nationals.
Omwamba's lawyers opposed this, stating he surrendered voluntarily with no flight risk. They added he is willing to surrender his passport and already has Sh100,000 bail granted by the High Court on February 4, which also barred his arrest.
The judge agreed the High Court order prevents arrest but allows responding to charges. A National Intelligence Service report presented on February 18, 2026, showed an order barring Omwamba from traveling for his role in sending Kenyans to Russia. It remains unclear how he managed frequent trips to Russia despite the order.
His business associate, Russian national Mikhail Lyapin, was arrested on September 24, 2025, during a raid at a house in Greatwall Apartments, Athi River, where 22 Kenyans were found prepared to travel to Moscow. Another associate, Edward Gituku, was also arrested. Omwamba told Taifa Leo he was in Russia working as a supervisor in a cleaning company for several months and would return to Kenya in March for his case.
