Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested a Kenyan man who went viral after posting a video of himself tearing Kenyan currency notes, sparking outrage among netizens and drawing the attention of authorities.
The suspect, identified as Maximilian Motara, popularly known online as “Billionaire Son,” was apprehended by officers from the Banking Fraud Investigations Unit after a clip circulated widely on social media showing him deliberately tearing several KSh100 banknotes while recording himself.
In the now-viral video, Motara appears seated and casually ripping the pink Sh100 notes into pieces before discarding them, an act that many Kenyans online described as disrespectful and unlawful.
The footage quickly spread across platforms such as TikTok and Facebook, prompting heated debate and calls for authorities to take action.
According to investigators, the video triggered an inquiry into the alleged destruction of legal tender, leading detectives to track down and arrest the content creator.
Authorities confirmed that Motara is currently in custody and is expected to be arraigned in court.
Viral Stunt Sparks Online Outrage
The incident ignited mixed reactions among Kenyans on social media.
While some users condemned the act as irresponsible and disrespectful to the country’s currency, others questioned whether the issue warranted a full criminal investigation.
Many critics argued that destroying money for social media attention reflects a worrying trend among online influencers who create controversial content to gain views and engagement.
Motara, who has built a social media following through flashy and provocative videos, reportedly shared the clip as part of his online content, which often showcases a lavish lifestyle and bold stunts aimed at attracting viral attention.
What The Law Says
Kenyan law strictly prohibits the deliberate destruction or defacement of currency.
Under Section 367A of the Penal Code, it is a criminal offence for any person to “willfully and without lawful authority deface, tear, cut or otherwise mutilate a currency note.”
Individuals found guilty of the offence may face a fine of up to KSh2,000, imprisonment for a term not exceeding three months, or both.
Authorities say such laws are designed to protect the integrity of the national currency and ensure banknotes remain usable within the financial system.
Financial regulators have also repeatedly warned the public against damaging money through acts such as stapling, folding, or using notes as decorations during celebrations, which can result in defacement.
Warning To The Public
The arrest serves as a warning to Kenyans that misuse of legal tender, even for entertainment or social media content, can attract legal consequences.
Investigators say the case highlights a growing trend of viral stunts involving money and have urged the public to treat currency with respect, noting that deliberate destruction of banknotes undermines confidence in the country’s financial system.
Motara is expected to appear in court where prosecutors will outline the charges related to the alleged mutilation of Kenyan currency.
If convicted, the TikToker could face fines or a short jail term, as authorities continue to caution the public against damaging the country’s legal tender.
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