Yoeal Haile, the American citizen detained at Nairobi’s Capitol Hill police station since late last week, has been released, his friends and family announced on Sunday. Haile was arrested and held under unclear circumstances, with the police reportedly refusing to release him, grant bail, or charge him in court.
A member of Haile’s family, Yacob Berhane, shared an update on his X account on Sunday evening, writing, “Very happy to announce Yoeal is released and safe. Thank you everyone for all the support.”
Very happy to announce Yoeal is released and safe. Thank you everyone for all the support. Feeling so grateful for the community support and all the love out there for Yoeal. And thank you @LarryMadowo for amplifying 🙏🏾. https://t.co/XuNh2fnXpg
— Yacob Berhane 🌳 (@YacobBerhane) June 30, 2024
Amnesty International Kenya is among the parties that raised concerns about Haile’s arrest. The rights organisation on Saturday said an OCS at the station had denied a bail or bond request.
CNN Journalist Larry Madowo said as of Sunday, Haile had been detained for the third day.
We are very concerned to hear that American citizen Yoele Haille has been held at Capitol Hill Station since yesterday 3pm. OCS Kanangi is denying him bond or bail despite legal representation. We call for his release.#ProtectTheProtest pic.twitter.com/BbR7ayZeoa
— Amnesty Kenya (@AmnestyKenya) June 29, 2024
