DCI arrests man over inciting social media posts

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The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has arrested a suspect linked to viral inflammatory utterances circulated across social media platforms.

In a statement on Wednesday, the DCI said the suspect was apprehended during an operation conducted by detectives from the Operations Support Unit in the Kayole.

The agency said the suspect is under investigation over remarks it described as highly inciteful and a threat to public cohesion and national stability.

According to the DCI, the suspect is currently in custody undergoing processing ahead of arraignment in court.

“The DCI cautions the public against making public utterances or disseminating content that incites violence, spreads hatred, or undermines peace and national unity,” the agency said.

“Such acts amount to serious offences, and those found culpable will face firm legal action in accordance with the law.”

The arrest comes amid increased scrutiny by security agencies over the use of social media platforms to spread inflammatory content and messages deemed capable of heightening political and ethnic tensions in the country.

Authorities have in recent months intensified monitoring of online platforms as political activity continues to rise ahead of the 2027 General Election.

The DCI has repeatedly urged Kenyans to exercise responsibility while using digital platforms, warning that individuals found spreading hate speech, misinformation or incitement risk prosecution under existing laws.

The agency further appealed to the public to report individuals involved in criminal activities through its anonymous reporting channels.

Kenya’s laws criminalise hate speech, incitement to violence and dissemination of content likely to threaten peace and security.

Security agencies have maintained that freedom of expression must be exercised within the confines of the Constitution and the law, particularly where public order and national cohesion are concerned.

The DCI said investigations into the matter are ongoing.