The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has denied claims that it spies on the phones and digital devices of Kenyans.
Allegations Against DCI
A Daily Nation article alleged that detectives planted spyware on a phone belonging to activist Bryan Adagala. Adagala, one of the filmmakers behind Blood Parliament, claimed that his phone was taken by police on May 21 at 5:17 pm. It was later returned on July 10.
The article suggested that during this time, spyware was installed on his device. It added that the tool used was easily available and could be installed when someone had physical access to a gadget.
DCI’s Response
The DCI dismissed the claims as “false and sensational.” Detectives accused the newspaper of trying to mislead the public and tarnish the agency’s image.
“We categorically refute these claims as false and sensational, aimed at misguiding the public and undermining the integrity of the DCI,” the statement read.
The officers said they could not reveal more details since the matter is already in court.
Reassurance to Kenyans
The DCI assured citizens that it values both public and private safety. It stressed that it operates strictly within the law and respects constitutional rights, including privacy.
A Related Court Ruling
The clarification comes only a week after a High Court ruling in Nairobi. The court ordered the government to pay Ksh500,000 to a young man whose phone was searched illegally. The police had accessed his device without a court order, violating his right to privacy.
Conclusion
By issuing this statement, the DCI aims to calm fears about digital surveillance. However, with the matter now in court, Kenyans will be watching closely for further developments
