The Russian Embassy in Nairobi has denied reports that one of its citizens was arrested and deported, clarifying that Mikhail Lyapin was only questioned by Kenyan authorities before leaving the country in line with his travel plans.
In a statement on Saturday, September 27, 2025, the embassy described as ‘misleading’ media coverage regarding Mikhail Lyapin, a Russian national.
According to the embassy, Kenyan law enforcement officers escorted Lyapin to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) offices in Nairobi on the evening of September 25, where he was questioned about his business activities in the country.
The embassy emphasized that Lyapin was not arrested. Following the conclusion of all required procedures, he departed Kenya on September 26, in line with his prior travel plans.
“Diplomats of the Russian Embassy in Nairobi provided the necessary consular and legal assistance to the Russian citizen, and also made sure that his legal rights were not violated,” the statement read.
The embassy further clarified that it had not received any official information from Kenyan authorities regarding claims against Lyapin or his business activities.
Contrary to some reports, the embassy also clarified that Lyapin is not an employee of any Russian government institution and does not work at the Russian Embassy in Nairobi.
The Russian mission underscored its commitment to cooperating with Kenyan authorities on issues concerning Russian citizens in Kenya. This includes ensuring that Russian nationals comply with both Kenyan and Russian laws while safeguarding their rights and interests.
“The Embassy is always open to constructive cooperation with Kenyan authorities on issues related to the stay of Russian citizens in the Republic of Kenya.”
The embassy urged Kenyan citizens traveling to Russia for study, work, tourism, or other purposes to contact its consular section in Nairobi if they have any inquiries.
The clarification comes at the backdrop of the Russian national was allegedly taken in for questioning in connection with investigations into the illegal recruitment of Kenyans to fight for Russia.
Security agencies had rescued 21 Kenyans from rented apartments where they were unknowingly being processed to travel to Russia.
The suspect, who first came to Kenya in 2017, was booked at Muthaiga Police Station, awaiting arraignment after being arrested in Nairobi, police said.
Security officers continue to caution Kenyans against being duped with lucrative offers of employment in Russia, warning that victims risk being forcefully enlisted in the war between Russia and Ukraine.