The Nyeri businessman who was abducted in broad daylight on Wednesday, had in 2017 been arrested within the same area.
Gerald Guandaru, 45, was arrested by Kenya Wildlife Service officers and charged with being in possession of wildlife trophies unlawfully.
However, following a protracted case, he was acquitted for lack of sufficient evidence.
On Wednesday, masked men in a Subaru abducted and drove away with him to an unknown destination along Sabina Street. Guandaru runs a barbershop and hotel and bar alongside his father.
Eyewitnesses said Guandaru had on Wednesday parked his car, a Toyota Premio outside Joans Bar and Restaurant.
An unmarked vehicle pulled behind him at the parking lot before two men suddenly alighted, and ordered him to get out of his car, which he did hesitantly.
Alleged abductors are said to have taken less than 10 minutes to shove Guandaru inside their car before speeding off. Guandaru is said to have called for help in vain.
CCTV footage of a nearby hotel showed four masked men and Guandaru, some holding him and others seen making calls.
Guandaru’s wife, Cecilia, yesterday told K24 Digital that her husband had on Monday received several anonymous calls and ended before they could be picked.
His family members have since made a report to Nyeri Police Station on his disappearance. Police have declined to comment on the matter.
