The resurfacing of five abductees whose mysterious disappearances gripped the nation since the festive season began has cast a long shadow over Kenya's embattled security apparatus.
Their release, coinciding with a critical moment for Inspector General of Police Douglas Kanja, who is under a court order to explain whereabouts of another missing person, has raised fresh questions on the integrity of law enforcement.
The timing, eerily similar to the "Kitengela Three" case weeks ago, has fueled speculation about police involvement in the dark plots.
Are top security chiefs shielding the police's reputation only when confronted with public and legal scrutiny?