Police in Njoro, Nakuru County, have rescued 67 girls who were allegedly confined in a house while awaiting overseas job placements, in an incident that has raised fresh concerns over the safety of job seekers pursuing opportunities abroad.
The rescue followed a police operation at a house in Bondeni area after authorities received a distress call from one of the victims. Officers moved in and discovered dozens of young women living in what has been described as overcrowded and unhygienic conditions.
According to the victims, they had been held at the facility for months as they waited to travel to Gulf States and other foreign destinations for employment. Some alleged that they were subjected to threats and physical abuse, particularly when they sought answers regarding delays in their travel arrangements.
Njoro Sub-County police commander Nelson Kohen confirmed the incident, stating that the facility had been operating as a holding centre for individuals seeking jobs abroad. The premises were reportedly managed by a foreign recruitment agency.
Authorities have since established that some of the agency’s licences had expired in December 2025, raising questions about the legality of its operations. Police have ordered the immediate closure of the facility as investigations continue.
The rescue has once again put a spotlight on the risks faced by job seekers, particularly young people, who turn to recruitment agencies in search of employment opportunities outside the country. In recent years, cases of exploitation and fraud linked to overseas job schemes have been on the rise.
However, lawyers representing the operators of the facility have pushed back against the allegations, dismissing claims of abuse and calling for proper investigations. One lawyer argued that any individuals claiming to have been mistreated should formally record statements to enable authorities to take action.
The lawyer further insisted that if any wrongdoing is established, those responsible should face the full force of the law, including arrests and prosecution.
As investigations gather pace, authorities are expected to question those behind the operation and verify the claims made by the victims.
The incident underscores the urgent need for stricter regulation and oversight of recruitment agencies, as well as increased awareness among job seekers about the risks associated with overseas employment opportunities.
For the rescued girls, the focus now shifts to recovery and support, as the country grapples with yet another case highlighting the darker side of labour migration.
