The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has issued an urgent appeal to the public for information leading to the arrest of Francis Ng’ang’a Gaitho, who is wanted in connection with several cybercrime-related offenses in Kenya.
In an official statement on 2nd January 2025, the DCI revealed that Gaitho was charged under Section 23 of the Computer Misuse and Cyber Crimes Act for allegedly publishing false information. He failed to appear in court on December 4, 2024, prompting the Milimani Law Courts to issue a Warrant of Arrest against him.
Allegations Against Gaitho
The suspect is accused of sharing private and sensitive personal details belonging to a senior public official. He is also under investigation for publishing false information targeting multiple Kenyan citizens. Furthermore, Gaitho faces accusations of cyber harassment for allegedly making defamatory remarks against high-ranking government officials on social media.
The case files have been forwarded to the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP) for review and further legal action.
DCI Appeals for Public Support
The DCI is calling on members of the public to assist in locating Gaitho by providing any useful information. Citizens can report anonymously via the toll-free hotline 0800 722 203 or by visiting the nearest police station.
Cybercrime on the Rise in Kenya
This case highlights the growing threat of cybercrime in Kenya, where individuals exploit digital platforms to spread false information and compromise personal data. Authorities continue to strengthen measures to tackle these violations and ensure accountability for online misconduct.
Legal Consequences for Cyber Offenders
Kenya’s Computer Misuse and Cyber Crimes Act imposes strict penalties on individuals found guilty of offenses such as publishing false information and cyber harassment. Convicted offenders risk facing significant fines and imprisonment.
Public Vigilance Urged
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations emphasizes the importance of public vigilance and cooperation in addressing cybercrime. The agency assures citizens that all reports will be handled confidentially.
More on Gaitho:
Francis Gaitho has been very vocal on X leaking numbers of seniors Gov’t official of various allegations.
Some of Gatho’s tweets:
Gaitho Reply:
Gatho thanked his followers “for the calls and messages of goodwill.”
“To members of the mainstream media who write DCI press-releases copy paste without verifying details, kindly include that I will be presenting myself at DCI headquarters on Monday 7th January at 10am accompanied by my lawyers. I’m not a criminal. I’m not a murderer. I’m not a capital offender. I just tweet.” He said in a statement on X.
According to Gaitho, Freedom of speech is a constitutional entitlement and that he will exercise it to the best of his ability.
“Other criminals are walking free out here but mine is political persecution because many of these cases have civil remedies. 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 direct.”
Adding: “We hope you will be there to cover us. In light of all the abductions and enforced disappearances, media coverage will greatly assist in enforcing accountability from law enforcement agencies. Francis Gaitho.”
