Kenya Airways (KQ) announced on Monday, April 29, the temporary suspension of its flights to Kinshasa, effective from April 30, 2024. This decision comes in light of the prolonged detention of KQ employees by the Military Intelligence Unit in Kinshasa, which has significantly hampered the airline’s ability to oversee its operations effectively.
In a statement addressed to the media, KQ expressed its deep concern over the situation, emphasizing the critical role of its personnel in ensuring the smooth functioning of flights. “Due to the continued detention of KQ employees by the Military Intelligence Unit in Kinshasa, Kenya Airways (KQ) is unable to support our flights without personnel effectively,” the statement outlined. “As a result, we have reluctantly decided to suspend flights to Kinshasa until such time as we can ensure the necessary support for these operations.”
The statement highlighted the broader impact of the ongoing detainment on various aspects of KQ’s operations in Kinshasa, including customer service, ground handling, cargo activities, and overall operational safety and efficiency. Additionally, KQ reiterated its call for the humane and respectful treatment of its staff during this challenging period of unlawful detention.
The recent incident leading to the suspension involved the apprehension of two KQ employees on Friday, April 19, during which their communication devices were confiscated, denying them access. KQ clarified that the arrests were purportedly linked to alleged missing custom documentation concerning valuable cargo scheduled for transportation on April 12, 2024. However, KQ clarified that the cargo, due to incomplete documentation, was never uplifted or accepted for transport.
In response to these developments, the Kenyan government, through Foreign Affairs Principal Secretary Korir Sing’Oei, expressed strong condemnation of the arrests and detentions. Sing’Oei reassured the public that the government is actively engaged in resolving the matter through diplomatic channels, affirming its commitment to safeguarding the welfare and rights of Kenyan citizens working abroad. “Kenya takes great exception to the arrest and detention of its nationals lawfully carrying out commercial activities in the Democratic Republic of Congo by authorities in DRC,” Sing’Oei stated, emphasizing the government’s dedication to addressing the issue and providing updates on any significant developments.
