Man Arrested Over Alleged Online Incitement And Ethnic Hostility

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested a Facebook user, William Owuor Ochieng, in Nairobi’s Central Business District (CBD) over allegations of publishing inflammatory online content containing threats, incitement to violence and ethnic targeting, raising concerns over public safety ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The suspect, who operates a Facebook account under the name “William Jahome,” is alleged to have published messages targeting members of the Kikuyu community residing in the Rift Valley region, reportedly calling on them to leave the area ahead of the forthcoming General Election.

Acting on the matter, detectives from the Crime Research and Intelligence Bureau (CRIB), working alongside the Operations Action Team at DCI Headquarters, conducted investigations that culminated in the suspect’s arrest within Nairobi CBD.
He was subsequently escorted to DCI Headquarters for further processing.

The suspect remains in custody pending arraignment in court.

The DCI Mohamed Amin cautioned against the misuse of digital platforms to spread threats, incite violence or promote ethnic hostility.
“As the country approaches the 2027 General Election, the Directorate reiterates its commitment to protecting lives, maintaining public order and safeguarding national security.”

The DCI further warned that anyone found engaging in unlawful online activities will be dealt with in accordance with the law.