Eldoret, Kenya — A major storm has hit the healthcare sector after Mediheal Hospital’s Fertility and Transplant Centre in Eldoret was thrust into the spotlight over allegations of human organ trafficking.
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has now officially confirmed that its elite Transnational Organized Crime Unit (TOCU) has taken over the matter, signaling the gravity and scope of the unfolding scandal.
According to a statement released by the DCI, multiple reports had been filed at various police stations and DCI offices across the North Rift region, all pointing to a disturbing pattern of illegal organ harvesting and transplant procedures. These reports have now been consolidated under one coordinated investigation by TOCU.
The DCI’s statement further noted that TOCU detectives would not only harmonize existing reports but also record fresh statements from victims, suspects, and anyone else with relevant information. The team will also employ advanced forensic techniques to unearth the truth behind the shocking claims.
Sources familiar with the case suggest that the organ trade operation could stretch beyond Kenya’s borders, hinting at the involvement of international transplant tourism. Allegations point to poor and vulnerable individuals being targeted for their kidneys, which would then be sold to wealthy recipients for staggering sums.
The allegations have rocked both medical and political circles, especially after emerging reports claimed that desperate donors were lured with promises of financial rewards, only to later suffer long-term health complications after organ extraction.
The Kenya Renal Association has already raised the alarm, recommending the suspension of Mediheal Hospital’s transplant license as investigations continue. The Association flagged potential violations of ethical standards in the recruitment of donors and the consent process, raising concerns that the hospital might have allowed commercialization of organ transplants — a direct violation of both Kenyan and international medical laws.
In response to the growing outrage, the Ministry of Health has suspended all kidney transplant services at the Mediheal Group of Hospitals pending a full audit. The audit is expected to cover every aspect of the hospital’s transplant operations over the last five years, from governance and clinical procedures to ethical compliance.
Meanwhile, President William Ruto has acted swiftly on the matter by suspending Dr. Swarup Mishra, the founder of Mediheal Hospital, from his public appointment as chairman of a state medical research body, pending the completion of the investigation.
The DCI has now called on any individuals with knowledge or evidence about the case — including former patients, potential donors, or hospital staff — to present themselves at the DCI Headquarters in Nairobi, Block B, and record their statements with the Head of TOCU.
The DCI reiterated its commitment to uncovering the truth and delivering justice, promising a professional and thorough investigation.
This high-profile case has reignited debate over the regulation of organ transplants in Kenya, with medical experts warning that stricter oversight is needed to prevent the exploitation of desperate individuals.
As the probe continues, both victims and the public are anxiously waiting for the findings, which could expose one of the most significant healthcare scandals in recent Kenyan history.
