NAIROBI, Kenya — The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has secured a custodial order allowing police to detain a suspect for 10 days as investigations continue into alleged hate speech and ethnic incitement linked to a viral video.
The order was issued by the Chief Magistrate’s Court, Kahawa, permitting investigators to hold Bare Sahara Ahmed at Kilimani Police Station while inquiries are finalised.
According to the DCI, the detention will enable officers to carry out comprehensive investigations, including forensic analysis of digital evidence such as call data records and financial transactions believed to be relevant to the case.
The agency said the move reflects its commitment to enforcing laws that safeguard national cohesion and public order, particularly in cases involving potentially inflammatory content shared online.
Kenya’s legal framework, including provisions under the Constitution of Kenya 2010, guarantees freedom of expression but places limits on speech that may incite violence, hatred, or ethnic division.
Authorities have increasingly turned to digital forensics in handling cyber-related and speech-based offences, as social media platforms continue to play a central role in public discourse and political engagement.
The DCI urged members of the public to exercise responsibility in their communications, warning against the creation or dissemination of content that could undermine peaceful coexistence.
The suspect is expected to remain in custody as investigations proceed, after which prosecutors will determine whether to prefer formal charges.
