The Embassy of Kenya in Moscow raised concern over an increasing number of Kenyan nationals travelling to the Russian Federation after receiving job offers through unvetted agents and informal online platforms.
In a public advisory, the embassy said it has received numerous distress reports from affected individuals and their relatives, either directly or through the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs.
Many reported being promised lucrative employment opportunities, high salaries, and residency arrangements that, upon arrival, either did not exist or differed significantly from what had been communicated.
Some of the victims further indicated that their passports were withheld, their movement restricted, and that they were subjected to conditions beyond their control — in some cases limiting access to consular assistance.
The embassy cautioned that where individuals travel through irregular, unsafe, or informal channels, consular access and intervention may be limited or delayed. Immediate extraction or repatriation can also prove difficult, particularly where there are contractual disputes, restricted locations, or ongoing legal and administrative processes under the laws of the host country.
Some were later sent to fight against Ukraine at a fee. Some were killed or injured in the fight.
Kenya in collaboration with authorities in Russia and neighbouring states, continues to assist affected citizens wherever access and local regulations permit. However, the embassy emphasised that prevention remains the most effective protection.
The embassy strongly urged Kenyans to avoid travelling for employment arranged through social media, messaging applications, or unlicensed agencies.
It wants all to also verify all job offers through the Ministry of Labour and Social Protection, the Ministry of Foreign and Diaspora Affairs, and the relevant Kenyan diplomatic mission before departure.
“Refrain from travelling on tourist visas for employment purposes. Inform family members that unverified travel arrangements carry significant personal risk and may limit government assistance,” a statement said.
It told those traveling to register with the Embassy if travelling to or residing in the Russian Federation, the Republic of Belarus, or Kazakhstan.
The embassy noted that individuals who knowingly bypass official government verification procedures may encounter situations where assistance options are severely constrained by local laws.
It further stated that it is working closely with authorities to address emerging fraudulent recruitment networks and urged Kenyans seeking opportunities abroad to conduct due diligence before travelling.
“The safety and welfare of Kenyan citizens abroad remains a priority of the Government of Kenya,” the advisory stated.
Email your news TIPS to Editor@Kahawatungu.com — this is our only official communication channel
