How TikToker was dumped by roadside after 12-hour ordeal
Nairobi
By
Pkemoi Ng'enoh
| Mar 07, 2026
25-year-old Joash Omollo, a TikToker and activist, during an interview in Kayole, where he narrated that unknown people abducted him on March 4, 2026. [David Gichuru, Standard]
For about 12 hours, Joash Omollo (Janeko Genzi), a government critic, was confined in a car by his abductors, uncertain whether he would emerge alive.
Fortunately, his prayers were answered. He walked away unharmed and recounted his ordeal after being kidnapped on Wednesday in Soweto, Embakasi, and later abandoned kilometres away in Kitengela.
Reports of Omollo’s disappearance went viral on the evening of March 4, 2026, moments after he stepped out of a funeral fundraiser and his mobile phone went offline.
TikToker and activist Joash Omollo (second right), 25, with friends who rescued him in Kitengela after his alleged abduction on March 4, and dumped 12 hours later. [David Gichuru, Standard] Agoa renewal offers new chance to redefine Africa's place in global trade Iran war hits kitchens as shilling slumps, forex reserves dwindle China woos Kenyan producers with '800-million opportunity' as zero-tariff deal takes effect Co-op bank shares set for further gains on strong profit growth, lower rates Kenya slashes dollar debt to record low as Chinese yuan gains ground Government plans stricter laws to clean up tea sector Tourism earnings hit record Sh500 billion as arrivals near 8m Kakamega youth, women eye avocado export cash after skills training Portable kitchen: Designer taps into space-saving trend Kenya urged to pilot AI regulatory Sandbox in bid to lead Africa's digital futureREAD MORE
“I had just stepped out, heading home, when a black Toyota Fielder pulled up beside me. Two men jumped out, handcuffed me, and threw me into the car boot,” he said.
“From there, they sped off and I could not tell which direction we took from the estate. I was terrified and unsure whether they would spare my life, having heard how abductees are often tortured or killed,” he added.
For several months, Omollo has been actively criticising the government online, primarily through TikTok, and making political commentaries at Bunge la Mwananchi at Jacaranda Grounds in Nairobi.
Omollo, a staunch supporter of Embakasi East MP Babu Owino, believes this could be the motive behind his abduction. 25-year-old Joash Omollo, a TikToker and activist, during an interview in Kayole, where he narrated that unknown people abducted him on March 4, 2026. [David Gichuru, Standard]
“They took my phone and asked who was funding me to criticise the State and certain government officials,” Omollo said, insisting that he produces content independently, without any funding.
He alleged that, at one point, the captors—armed with guns—poked him around the ribs in an attempt to extract information from him in vain.
“I had nothing to tell them because what I have been posting online reflects the true experiences of myself and other youths. We are jobless, yet the government has failed to deliver on promises, including job creation,” he said.
The father of one was dumped in Kitengela, Kajiado County, on March 5, 2026, twelve hours later and without a mobile phone.
“By the time they abandoned me, I was disoriented and did not know where I was. It was around 9 am, but fortunately, a passerby helped me call my brother, who came and picked me up,” Omollo said.
He was later taken to Meridian Hospital for a check-up before reporting the incident at Soweto Police Post for investigation.
David Omollo, the victim’s elder brother, said the family was relieved that Joash had not been harmed and called for a thorough investigation.
“We feared for his life because his phone went offline the moment he stepped out. We only received a call from a different number later, with the good news that he was alive and had been abandoned in Kitengela,” the brother said.
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