The Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions has secured a warrant of arrest against a Jomo Kenyatta International Airport immigration officer who failed to appear in court to take a plea in a human trafficking case.
The accused, John Poriot, was scheduled to appear before the Kahawa Law Courts but did not attend, prompting the court to issue a warrant for his arrest.
Presiding Magistrate Gideon Kiage directed that the matter be mentioned on 8 April 2026.
According to the prosecution, Poriot’s absence stalled proceedings in a case that authorities say is part of broader efforts to combat cross border trafficking networks.
Poriot is charged under the Counter Trafficking in Persons Act, No. 8 of 2010, for allegedly facilitating the illegal exit of two Kenyan nationals for purposes of exploitation.
Court documents indicate that on 3 October 2024, at Jomo Kenyatta International Airport in Embakasi Sub County, he jointly with others not before the court trafficked Evans Kipyegon and Isaac Kipruto.
The victims were allegedly deceived with promises of employment opportunities in Thailand.
He also faces a second charge under the Proceeds of Crime and Anti Money Laundering Act, No. 9 of 2009, relating to possession of KSh 11,087 suspected to be proceeds of crime.
Prosecutors say investigations remain ongoing as authorities seek to dismantle networks linked to human trafficking schemes operating through major transit points such as Jomo Kenyatta International Airport.
The case highlights increasing scrutiny on officials tasked with safeguarding borders, amid growing concerns over exploitation disguised as overseas job opportunities.
The DPP has reiterated its commitment to pursuing individuals involved in trafficking and ensuring accountability within public service.
