A man is staring at a hefty Sh20 million fine or a possible 10-year jail term after detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) arrested him over alleged threatening messages shared on TikTok.
In a statement, the DCI confirmed the arrest of Peter Maingi Kimani, also known as Menelik Kimani, who is suspected of recording and circulating a video containing a threatening message on his TikTok account earlier this week.
Smoked Out of Hideout
According to the investigative agency, detectives drawn from DCI headquarters tracked down the man to the Gachage area of Kiganjo in Gatundu South Sub-County, where he had reportedly gone into hiding after committing the offence.
“Detectives drawn from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) headquarters have arrested Peter Maingi Kimani alias Menelik Kimani, who is suspected of recording a video containing a threatening message and sharing it on his TikTok account earlier this week,” the statement read.
“The suspect was smoked out of his hideout in the Gachage area of Kiganjo, Gatundu South Sub-County, where he had holed up after committing the offence. He is currently undergoing processing pending arraignment.”
Authorities did not immediately disclose the exact contents of the alleged threats but indicated that the video raised serious security concerns.
Sh20 Million Fine or 10-Year Jail Term
The man is expected to be charged under provisions of the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Act, a law that criminalises the publication of false, misleading, or threatening information through digital platforms.
Under the Act, individuals found guilty of publishing threatening or alarming content that could cause panic, chaos, or breach of peace risk a fine of up to Sh20 million, imprisonment for up to 10 years, or both.
Legal experts note that Kenyan courts have in recent years taken a firm stance against cyber offences, particularly those deemed to endanger national security or incite public unrest.
DCI Issues Warning
In its statement, the DCI reminded Kenyans that while freedom of expression is enshrined in the Constitution, it has limits.
“The DCI reminds the public that while freedom of expression is guaranteed in the Constitution, its enjoyment should not be used as a tool to promote or justify the violation of the rights of others,” the agency said.
“The Directorate further reiterates that no effort will be spared in addressing any irresponsible use of social media, especially where there is a threat to peace and security.”
Rising Cases of Social Media Arrests
The arrest comes amid increased scrutiny of social media activity in Kenya, particularly on fast-growing platforms such as TikTok.
Authorities have in the past arrested bloggers, influencers, and content creators accused of spreading hate speech, misinformation, or incitement.
In 2023 and 2024, the government intensified calls for responsible online conduct, citing concerns over digital abuse, cyberbullying, and politically charged content that could destabilise communities.
Human rights groups, however, have occasionally expressed concern over the potential misuse of cybercrime laws to curb dissent, urging law enforcement to balance security enforcement with constitutional freedoms.
Awaiting Arraignment
Peter Maingi Kimani remains in custody as detectives finalise investigations ahead of his arraignment in court.
The case is likely to spark debate over the limits of online speech and the growing reach of law enforcement into digital spaces.
As the matter proceeds to court, Kenyans will be keenly watching how the judiciary interprets the law in relation to social media content and whether the suspect will indeed face the maximum penalty of Sh20 million fine or 10 years behind bars.
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