The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has been granted three days to detain a woman accused of publishing social media posts allegedly tracking President William Ruto’s flight movements.
The woman, Halima Ngache, was presented before the Milimani Law Courts on Wednesday, where investigators successfully applied for more time to complete investigations into what they described as a sensitive cybercrime case.
According to court documents, detectives told the court they are investigating a series of posts shared on social media that allegedly monitored and publicised the President’s flight movements.
They argued that the suspect’s electronic devices require forensic examination to establish the origin of the posts and determine whether any other individuals were involved.
The DCI further informed the court that the investigations are still at an early stage and require additional time to analyse digital evidence recovered during the arrest.
The court agreed with the request and allowed detectives to continue holding the suspect for three days before she is returned to court.
The case comes amid increased scrutiny of social media activity in Kenya, with authorities stepping up investigations into online content they believe poses security risks or violates the country’s cybercrime laws.
In recent months, several individuals have been arrested or investigated over posts relating to President Ruto and other senior government officials.
The latest case is expected to reignite debate over the balance between national security and the constitutional right to freedom of expression, especially as authorities intensify efforts to police online content.
Detectives are expected to conclude their investigations within the three-day period before deciding whether to prefer charges against the suspect.