A family in Homa Bay County is anxiously searching for answers after their son, a former Kenya Defence Forces (KDF) soldier, went missing in Russia under unclear circumstances.
Richard Omondi, 30, last communicated with his family on August 7, 2025, through Facebook Messenger, in what has now become his final known message. In the brief exchange, he reassured relatives that he was safe but hinted at difficult conditions.
“I’m good, but the situation is difficult,” he wrote to his sister-in-law. When pressed for more details, he added, “It is not easy,” before communication abruptly stopped.
Omondi had previously served in the KDF for seven years, stationed at the Nanyuki Barracks. However, he was dismissed from service in 2022 and later lost an appeal challenging the decision.
After struggling to secure employment locally, the family says he accepted what he believed was a legitimate job opportunity abroad. He travelled to Russia in July 2025 via Turkey, unaware that the situation might involve military engagement.
Relatives now believe that shortly after his arrival, Omondi may have been drawn into military operations, possibly due to his prior training. Images he reportedly sent back showed him dressed in military gear alongside other African recruits and a Russian soldier.
Despite attempts by Kenyan authorities to trace him, his whereabouts remain unknown.
His family continues to appeal for help, holding onto hope that he is alive and will eventually return home safely.
