The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has launched an official investigation into claims of human organ trafficking involving Mediheal Group of Hospitals. The probe, announced on Tuesday, April 22, will focus on alleged unethical kidney transplant procedures at Mediheal’s Fertility and Transplant Centre in Eldoret, Uasin Gishu County.

The investigation is being led by the DCI’s Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU), which will consolidate previous reports and statements recorded across various police stations in the North Rift region. The unit will also take fresh statements from victims, suspects, and other individuals with relevant information.

“The DCI remains committed to conducting investigations with utmost professionalism, with a view to deliver timely justice to both victims and perpetrators of crime,” read part of the DCI statement.

Individuals with information related to the case have been urged to present themselves to the Head of TOCU at DCI Headquarters, Block B, to assist with the investigations.

The announcement coincided with the National Assembly’s Departmental Committee on Health launching an 80-day public inquiry into the same allegations. Committee Chair Dr. James Nyikal, the Seme MP, emphasized the seriousness of the claims and vowed to ensure accountability.

“This is a serious matter that touches on the dignity of life and the reputation of Kenya’s medical profession,” said Dr. Nyikal. “We intend to get to the bottom of it. Were the procedures at Mediheal in line with the Health Act and Human Tissue Act? Was there evidence of organ commercialization? Were donors fully informed, or were they deceived or coerced into donating?”

Concerns over the hospital’s transplant practices are not new. In May 2024, the Kenya Renal Association called for the immediate suspension of Mediheal’s operating licenses, citing a worrying trend of transplant commercialization and transplant tourism involving vulnerable donors.

The association noted that such practices violate both international and local laws, including World Health Organization resolutions, the Declaration of Istanbul, and Kenya’s Health Act 01 of 2017.