Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have strongly denied allegations that they are spying on the mobile phones and digital devices of private citizens, describing the claims as “false and sensational.”
In a statement issued on Friday morning, the DCI dismissed a Daily Nation report that alleged the agency had planted surveillance software on the phone of activist and filmmaker Bryan Adagala, known for his work on the documentary Blood Parliament.
According to the article, Adagala’s device was allegedly compromised on May 21 at 5:17 PM, when it was confiscated by police, and later returned to him on July 10.
The report further claimed that spyware was installed during that period, enabling the monitoring of his communications and digital activity.
It also stated that the tool used is commercially available and can be installed with physical access to a device.
In response, the DCI rejected the assertions, accusing the publication of attempting to mislead the public and damage the agency’s credibility.
“We categorically refute these claims as false and sensational, aimed at misguiding the public and undermining the integrity of the DCI,” the statement read.
While the DCI did not provide specific details about the case, it noted that the matter is currently before the courts, and therefore sub judice.
The agency further assured the public of its commitment to upholding constitutional rights, including the right to privacy, emphasizing that its operations are conducted strictly within the framework of the law.
“The DCI remains committed to respecting the privacy of all Kenyans and does not engage in any activity that violates constitutional protections,” the detectives added.
The DCI’s response comes just days after a Nairobi High Court ordered the government to pay sh500,000 in compensation to a young man whose phone was allegedly searched by police without a court order.
The court found the search to be unlawful and in violation of the individual’s right to privacy.
That ruling has added fuel to ongoing public debates about digital surveillance and data privacy in Kenya.
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