Kenyan Authorities Close Ehsan Rehabilitation Centre and Remove 14-Year-Old and Eight Foreign Nationals

Kenyan authorities ordered the immediate closure of the Ehsan Rehabilitation Centre in Kajiado on 9 July 2026 after a dawn raid rescued a 14-year-old boy and eight foreign nationals. AllAfrica reported that the National Authority for the Campaign Against Alcohol and Drug Abuse led the multi-agency operation.

Investigators found the six-month-old facility had admitted the minor without legal safeguards or compliance with child protection rules.

The boy had allegedly been subjected to physical assault while at the centre. The child was placed under the care of the Department of Children Services. Investigators also discovered that the centre had treated patients with severe mental illnesses, including schizophrenia, without a psychiatrist or specialised staff.

A so-called strong room used to confine clients was uncovered during the inspection. NACADA Chief Executive Officer Anthony Omerikwa condemned the admissions. "We strongly condemn the admission of a 14-year-old child into a rehabilitation facility under circumstances that indicated the minor had been subjected to physical assault," he said.

Omerikwa added that rehabilitation must remain voluntary and respect human dignity. "The involuntary detention of clients, including foreign nationals, without lawful authority or due process is unacceptable and contrary to the principles of ethical treatment," he stated. The multi-agency team referred the case to law enforcement for further investigation and possible prosecution.

NACADA said it has stepped up a nationwide crackdown on non-compliant rehabilitation centres.