The Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) has obtained a warrant of arrest for an immigration officer stationed at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport (JKIA) following his failure to appear in court for plea-taking in a human-trafficking case.
The accused officer, John Poriot, was expected to answer charges before the Kahawa Law Courts under the Counter-Trafficking in Persons Act, No. 8 of 2010. He allegedly facilitated the illegal exit of two Kenyans from the country for purposes of exploitation.
According to court documents, on 3rd October 2024, at JKIA in Embakasi Sub-County, Poriot, alongside unidentified accomplices, is accused of trafficking Evans Kipyegon and Isaac Kipruto by misleading them with promises of employment opportunities in the Kingdom of Thailand.
These acts contravene Kenya’s strict anti-trafficking laws, which criminalize the recruitment, transportation, and exploitation of individuals for financial or labor gain.
In addition to the trafficking charges, Poriot faces a second allegation under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti-Money Laundering Act, No. 9 of 2009.
He is accused of possessing Ksh. 11,087 suspected to be proceeds of criminal activity, highlighting the financial component often associated with trafficking networks.
The warrant was issued by Hon. Gideon Kiage, who has scheduled the case for mention on 8th April 2026.
Human trafficking remains a significant concern in Kenya, often targeting vulnerable populations with false promises of employment abroad. The case has drawn attention to the need for continued vigilance at airports and border posts to prevent exploitation and safeguard citizens.
Authorities have assured that efforts will continue to identify and prosecute both public officials and private actors involved in trafficking networks.
