Activist Nuru Okanga has been detained for five days following directives issued by the Milimani Law Courts.
He was arrested at his residence in Kayole estate, in Nairobi on Tuesday, June 11, 2024, and was taken to the DCI headquarters for questioning before being arraigned in court.
According to a statement from the Office of the Directorate of Public Prosecution (ODPP) on Thursday, June 13, 2024, Okanga will be held at Muthaiga police station as per the prosecution’s request, pending the completion of investigations by the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI).
Okanga faces allegations under Section 23 of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act No. 5 of 2018 for purportedly disseminating false information. Additionally, he is under investigation for cyber harassment, as outlined in Section 27 of the same Act, among other related offenses.
During the court proceedings, the investigating officer presented findings indicating the existence of suspicious accounts allegedly managed by Okanga. These accounts allegedly posted malicious and false content about the Republic of Kenya and its leadership, inciting public disturbance.
Prosecution Counsel Virginia Kariuki informed the court of ongoing investigations into the continuous dissemination of harmful comments across various social media platforms including TikTok, YouTube, and affiliated websites linked to the suspect,” the ODPP statement clarified.
These activities are perceived as threats that could potentially disrupt peace, order, and public safety.
According to ODPP, Okanga has been identified as a repeat offender in relation to the ongoing investigation. The case is scheduled for mention on June 18, 2024, as authorities continue to gather evidence and conduct further inquiries into the matter.
