New details emerging from a sworn police affidavit suggest that mental health challenges may be a contributing factor in the mysterious disappearance of Hussein Abdirahman Mohammed, the Huduma Centre Manager in Wajir, who has been missing since July 8, 2025.
According to the affidavit filed by Inspector Kenga Chea, Hussein’s first cousin, Ahmed Muhamud Mohamed, revealed to investigators that the missing civil servant had previously suffered from mental health issues before joining public service in 2015. Ahmed disclosed that Hussein had, on various occasions, been on antidepressant medication and had a history of depressive episodes.
“He is very religious and sometimes goes for religious missions (Tabligh),” Ahmed added, suggesting that Hussein often withdrew into spiritual retreats, which could complicate efforts to trace him.
The case was officially reported to police on July 10 by Hussein’s nephew, Abdisalam Mohamed. He informed officers that he first learned of his uncle’s disappearance from another family member, prompting the family to launch a search. Hussein’s mother, who lives in Isiolo, and his wife in Adadijole, both confirmed that they had not seen or heard from him.
The police investigation, led by Wajir’s Sub-County Criminal Investigations Officer and detailed to Inspector Chea, uncovered that Hussein reported to the office on the morning of July 8 to collect personal belongings before leaving at around 8:30 a.m. the same day he was scheduled to begin his annual leave. His last known communication was a call to his wife at 9:14 a.m. that morning.
Hassim Mude Arale, Hussein’s deputy at Huduma Centre Wajir, told police that Hussein had delayed his leave by four days to attend a Cabinet Secretary’s visit in Tarbaj on July 7. Arale described him as a dedicated employee who maintained good relations at work. He, however, stated he was not aware of Hussein’s mental health history.
Police have since issued a nationwide missing persons alert and carried out searches at his residence in Bulla Power, Wajir, and his wife’s home in Bute. Thus far, Hussein has not been found, and police confirm he is not in custody at any station under the National Police Service.
“From the inquiries conducted, there are no indications that the 2nd Applicant is being held by the National Police Service in any of its stations or police offices,” reads the affidavit.
While the investigation remains active under Inquiry File No. 4 of 2025, the suggestion of previous mental health struggles raises new questions about whether Hussein’s disappearance could be voluntary or linked to an underlying medical condition.
Police have requested more time from the court to continue the search, as concerns mount among family members, colleagues, and the wider Wajir community.
The case has triggered public outcry and protests in Wajir, with residents demanding answers and swift action. Meanwhile, mental health advocates are calling for broader support systems for public servants battling psychological stress, especially in underserved and high-pressure regions.
