Human rights activist and VOCAL Africa staff member Sketty Walid was released late last night following the intervention of the Officer Commanding Station (OCS) at Central Police Station in Mombasa, hours after his arrest sparked public outrage.
Walid’s detention drew strong condemnation from human rights organisations and activists, with VOCAL Africa describing the incident as alarming and reflective of persistent concerns over police conduct and the treatment of human rights defenders in Kenya.
Earlier in the evening, VOCAL Africa had issued an alert condemning Walid’s arrest, explaining that he had gone to Central Police Station in response to urgent complaints from members of the public.
According to the organisation, residents had reported that youths were being arrested indiscriminately on the streets of Mombasa and detained in police cells without their details being recorded in the Occurrence Book (OB), a legal requirement intended to prevent arbitrary detention.
While at the station seeking clarification and accountability over the reported arrests, Walid was allegedly manhandled by police officers before being arrested himself.
VOCAL Africa maintained that he was acting within his mandate as a human rights defender by responding to public concerns and seeking transparency from law enforcement authorities.
Following the arrest, the organisation demanded Walid’s immediate and unconditional release, warning that the incident raised serious questions about due process, transparency, and respect for the rule of law.
The arrest triggered widespread online outrage, with activists and members of the public calling for his freedom and urging the police to adhere to legal procedures.
VOCAL Africa CEO Hussein Khalid later confirmed Walid’s release, thanking all those who played a role in ensuring his freedom.
“We can confirm that Sketty Walid was released later last night through the intervention of the OCS of Central Police Station, Mombasa. We thank everyone who was concerned and assisted in following up,” Khalid said.
In a public statement, the organisation also expressed gratitude to members of the public, civil society partners, and supporters who raised alarm and closely monitored the situation as it unfolded.
Although Walid’s release was welcomed by rights groups, civil society organisations say concerns remain over the circumstances surrounding his arrest.
They argue that the incident highlights a broader pattern of harassment and intimidation faced by activists who challenge alleged abuses by security agencies.
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