Popular TikTok user Kakan Maiyo has been released on a Sh10,000 police bond following his arrest on Wednesday, July 9, for allegedly inciting violence against police officers and their families. The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) reported that Maiyo was apprehended after a video surfaced on his TikTok account in which he is accused of encouraging attacks on law enforcement personnel.
According to the DCI, detectives tracked Maiyo to a private office he operated at Kimathi House under the name LetaPeleka Logistics. “Detectives trailed the suspect to Kimathi House, where he was operating a discreet office under the name LetaPeleka Logistics. He is currently in custody undergoing processing, pending arraignment,” the agency said in a statement at the time of his arrest.
His detention comes amid a government crackdown on individuals accused of inciting unrest and promoting hate speech during the ongoing wave of anti-government protests across the country. The protests, largely driven by Kenya’s youth, have drawn national attention due to their scale and the confrontations between demonstrators and security forces.
President William Ruto, addressing the nation earlier this week, made strong remarks about attacks on police officers and public property. “This is no longer a protest; this is anarchy. And we will crush it without fear or favour… It is terrorism, and we are going to deal with you firmly,” he said.
Ruto further directed law enforcement to use force against looters and vandals, stating, “Anyone who burns down someone else’s business and property, let them be shot in the leg and go to the hospital as they head to court.”
Maiyo’s arrest underscores the administration’s growing focus on social media influencers and content creators who are perceived to be fueling public dissent. While civil society groups have raised concerns about freedom of expression and due process, government officials maintain that their actions are necessary to preserve law and order.
As of now, Maiyo remains free on bond as investigations continue and the possibility of formal charges looms.
