The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued a public notice declaring Mr. Francis Ng’ang’a Gaitho wanted for alleged criminal activities under Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act.
According to the DCI, Mr. Gaitho has been charged in Case No. CR E738/24 for publishing false information, a violation of Section 23 of the Act. He reportedly absconded a court session on December 4, 2024, leading to the issuance of an arrest warrant by the Milimani Law Courts.
The DCI further alleges that Mr. Gaitho is under investigation for sharing personal information of a senior public officer and publishing false information targeting other Kenyan citizens. He also faces accusations of cyber harassment against senior government officials, with the case files awaiting review by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP).
Gaitho Responds: “I Am Not a Criminal”
In a defiant response shared on his social media platforms, Mr. Gaitho dismissed the allegations, describing them as politically motivated.
“I am not a criminal. I am not a murderer. I am not a capital offender. I just tweet. Freedom of speech is a constitutional entitlement, and I exercise it to the best of my ability,” said Gaitho.
He also criticized the manner in which the DCI issued the notice, accusing the agency of using intimidation tactics.
“This latest tweet by DCI is crafted to evoke fear and isolate me from friends and family as they know my lawyers and could have served them directly,” he added.
Political Persecution or Genuine Investigations?
Gaitho claims his legal troubles are a result of political persecution.
“Other criminals are walking free out here, but mine is political persecution because many of these cases have civil remedies,” he stated.
He also announced plans to cooperate with the authorities.
“I will be presenting myself at DCI headquarters on Monday, 7th January, at 10 am, accompanied by my lawyers. We hope you will be there to cover us,” he said, calling on media houses to provide oversight and accountability.
Gaitho emphasized the importance of media scrutiny, particularly given the rise in reported abductions and enforced disappearances.
“In light of all the abductions and enforced disappearances, media coverage will greatly assist in enforcing accountability from law enforcement agencies,” he concluded.
A Divided Public
The allegations against Gaitho have sparked a debate on social media, with some supporting his stance on free speech and others calling for due process to take its course.
The DCI has urged anyone with information about his whereabouts to report to the nearest police station. Meanwhile, the nation watches closely as this case unfolds, highlighting the delicate balance between cybersecurity laws and the right to freedom of expression.
