BUNGOMA, Kenya — Forty-four Eritrean nationals are currently being held at Brigadier Police Station in Tongaren Constituency, Bungoma County, after they were intercepted while reportedly seeking refuge in the country. The group was found residing in a local’s house within Miti Mbili Village.
The incident was confirmed by Soysambu Deputy County Commissioner Solomon Nginai, who stated the suspects are currently in custody while the Immigration Department verifies the validity of their entry permits and documentation.
Local residents in the Soysambu area, speaking anonymously to reporters, claimed the Eritreans arrived in the village early in the morning aboard a vehicle described as being “military-type.”
Appeal for safety and asylum
The primary defense of the Eritrean nationals is that they fled their home country due to the ongoing conflict and instability.
Also Read: Tanzania bans foreigners from operating 15 small businesses, Kenya raises concerns
They are now appealing to the Kenyan government to grant them asylum and provide accommodation in local refugee camps until peace is restored in their nation.
Their apprehension comes amid heightened regional scrutiny over border security and the movement of migrants seeking safety from ongoing conflicts across the Horn of Africa.
The outcome of the Immigration Department’s investigation will determine their legal status and the next steps regarding their request for asylum.
