Kenya’s families are demanding the return of loved ones as an official intelligence report reveals that more than 1,000 Kenyans were recruited to fight in Russia’s war in Ukraine, with 89 on the front lines, 39 hospitalized, and 28 missing in action.

Parliamentary leader Kimani Ichung’wah alleges collusion between Russian embassy officials and Kenyan recruitment agencies, with some applicants issued tourist visas under the scheme.

The investigation highlights alleged ties between recruitment agencies and Kenyan government staff across Immigration, Criminal Investigations, Anti-Narcotics Unit, and the National Employment Authority to evade interception, while routes shift to Uganda, the DRC, and South Africa amid stricter airport checks.

Two recruiters were arrested last year and released on bail as legal actions continue over the scheme.

Targets include former soldiers, police officers, and the unemployed, with promised salaries around 350,000 shillings a month and bonuses up to 1.2 million shillings, prompting concern as some recruits become mercenaries or end up on Ukraine’s front lines.

Returned recruits say they were promised skilled jobs like electricians and plumbers, signed contracts in Russian, and received little to no military training before deployment.

Contracts were largely written in Russian and touted skilled trades, while training was minimal before deployment.

Media investigations, including AFP, corroborate efforts to lure men from African countries with promises of lucrative employment.

Rogue recruitment agents are targeting former military personnel, police, and unemployed civilians in their 20s to 50s, offering high salaries and potential Russian citizenship.

Russia has also identified Uganda and South Africa as recruitment targets amid heavy casualties in Ukraine.

Kenya’s foreign ministry acknowledged the issue, advising citizens to exercise caution; two recruiters were arrested and are awaiting trial, with later reports noting bail arrangements.

The report cites 35 recruits sent to military camps in Russia, with 39 injured and 28 missing; ex-military personnel, ex-police officers, and unemployed Kenyans remain primary targets.