NAIROBI, Kenya- The High Court has ordered the release of a woman arrested over allegations that she operated an X account that published information tracking President William Ruto’s flight movements.
Justice Alexander Muteti directed that the suspect, Halima Ngache, also known online as “Princess Halima,” be released from police custody by the close of business on Friday.
The matter will be mentioned on Monday, when the court is expected to issue further directions on the case.
Ngache was arrested on June 30 by detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations’ (DCI) Serious Crimes Unit during what the agency described as an intelligence-led operation in the Kazandani area of Bamburi, Mombasa County.
According to the DCI, preliminary investigations linked her to an X account alleged to have published sensitive information concerning the movements of protected persons, including the President.
Following her arrest, investigators obtained a three-day custodial order from the Milimani Law Courts to facilitate completion of investigations.
Alleged flight tracking posts
Court documents filed by investigators allege that the X account published details of President Ruto’s international travel itinerary.
According to the affidavit, one post claimed the President travelled from Belgium to Norway aboard a chartered private jet on June 8, while another alleged he flew from Norway to Finland on June 10.
Investigators further cited a June 25 post claiming the Head of State had left Kenya and was expected to board a private jet in Madagascar.
The DCI told the court that investigators were seeking to establish the source and motive behind the alleged publications.
“…the motive of the alleged tracking remains unknown and the information published by the said user has caused apprehension on the person of the Head of State as well as Kenyan citizens,” the investigating officer stated in a court affidavit.
Rights and ongoing investigations
Justice Muteti’s order allows Ngache to regain her liberty as investigations continue. The court did not determine the merits of the allegations against her, which remain under investigation.
Under Article 49 of the Constitution, an arrested person has the right to be released on bond or bail on reasonable conditions unless there are compelling reasons to justify continued detention.
The case has drawn public attention amid ongoing debate over online expression, digital privacy and national security, particularly regarding the publication of information relating to protected public officials.
The High Court is expected to provide further directions when the matter returns for mention on Monday.