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Feb 12
2010
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Update on Mtwapa Hunt for HomosexualsPosted by Denis Nzioka in Untagged |
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The police later went to the center and arrested I believe 3 others. So we have five arrested gay men at Mtwapa police station. The mob moved with the police to the station which is where they still are ( about 12pm).
At the police station, one of our members was able to talk to some of the local Imams to try and difuse the situation. The police told him that they had arrested the guys to diffuse the situation since it was getting out of hand. The mob stated that they planned to burn the Kemri building and a club frequented by the community. The police asked the Imams to calm the youth and they agreed. The Imams were happy that the police had started arresting homosexuals and wanted them to arrest more from the clinic. It should also be noted two gay men's home have been ransacked by community members.
The Kenya Human Rights Commission (KHCR) is mobilizing a response. One of their staff is flying out there as we speak. They are identifying a lawyer to go to the police station as well as setting up systems for individuals who need medical care after they are released.
Now was there a wedding planned or not? From all whom I have talked to there was never a wedding planned in Mtwapa. Apparently it was one of those practical jokes on the radio ( Kalekye I think) that suggested that there was. I am trying to get to the bottom of this but there is clear media culpability to this situation and I was asked if there is a way to report this situation to the the Media Council of Kenya. We however need more information of where this story came from in the first place.
The Kemri clinic was closed and all staff and clients have been sent home.
Quick update on the media aspect to the situation:
'Actually Kaya and Baraka FM have been inciting people to act this morning and an Imam was interviewed by Baraka FM and he called on people to protest against homosexuals. Radio Rahama also been asking Muslims to find these men. From what I hear the rumors started in a hair salon.
Read here the Nation' s account, and the Star's .
Read here an updated timeline of events.
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The latest is that the real gay man/men arrested have been released as of yesternight. GALCK is releasing a press statement later in the day. Will keep you posted.