Safaricom PLC has firmly denied claims that it played any role in the arrest of the late Albert Omondi Ojwang, a former officer with the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI). The telecommunications company expressed shock at the allegations and distanced itself from any collaboration with security agencies regarding Ojwang’s arrest.
In an official statement, Safaricom termed the accusations as both “disturbing” and “baseless.” The company clarified that it only became aware of the incident through media reports and was not involved in any activity leading up to or surrounding the arrest of the late officer.
Public concern over the circumstances of Ojwang’s arrest and subsequent death has grown, prompting scrutiny of institutions that may have been connected to the events. Among those drawing attention to the matter were political leaders who implied that Safaricom may have provided assistance to law enforcement in tracking down the officer. Safaricom condemned these suggestions, emphasizing that no such collaboration took place.
The company expressed condolences to Ojwang’s family and friends and reiterated its commitment to protecting user data. It stressed that at no time did it receive or respond to any request from security agencies regarding Ojwang’s whereabouts or communication records.
Safaricom raised concerns over the potential impact of misinformation on public trust. The company warned that baseless accusations could incite unrest and called for calm as the nation seeks answers through legal and transparent avenues. The statement emphasized that efforts to link the telecommunications provider to the arrest not only mislead the public but also undermine confidence in data security.
In light of the situation, Safaricom urged leaders and citizens alike to demand a credible, impartial, and timely investigation. The goal, it stated, should be to uncover the truth behind Ojwang’s arrest and death, ensuring that any individuals found responsible are held accountable.
Meanwhile, the Communications Authority (CA) also denied any involvement in the matter. It stated that it does not have access to real-time location data and does not manage or use information held by mobile service providers for law enforcement operations. The authority clarified that its role is strictly regulatory, governed by the Kenya Information and Communications Act. Any request for user data by law enforcement, it explained, must follow a lawful and court-sanctioned process.
CA echoed the call for a thorough investigation, assuring the public of its commitment to lawful and transparent practices in the communications sector.
As investigations into the death of Albert Omondi Ojwang continue, both Safaricom and CA maintain that they were not involved in the chain of events that led to his arrest. Their statements reinforce the importance of due process, accountability, and protection of personal data in the digital age.
Safaricom concluded by reassuring Kenyans of its dedication to data security, adding that it has always safeguarded customer information and will continue to do so in the future.
