Francis Gaitho, Cybercrime Suspect, Targeted by Kenya’s Directorate of Criminal Investigations

The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) in Nairobi has officially named Francis Ng’ang’a Gaitho, a prominent online activist, as a wanted individual following a series of serious cyber-related crimes and acts of contempt of court. In an official statement released on Thursday, the DCI outlined a list of multiple allegations against Gaitho, who is believed to be evading justice by failing to comply with legal proceedings.

Gaitho, who has been active in using social media platforms to voice his views on various issues, was previously charged under Section 23 of the Computer Misuse and Cyber Crimes Act, which relates to the publication of false information. These charges stemmed from Gaitho’s alleged involvement in spreading misleading and harmful content online. He was required to attend a scheduled court session on December 4, 2024, but failed to appear, leading the Milimani Law Courts to issue a formal arrest warrant. The DCI’s statement pointed out that Gaitho not only violated the law by sharing false information but also showed a complete disregard for the judicial process by absconding from court.

The accusations against Gaitho go beyond the initial charge. The DCI has revealed that, in addition to the false information published by Gaitho, authorities are investigating his role in disclosing private information about a senior public official without authorization. Furthermore, Gaitho is alleged to have targeted other Kenyan citizens, disseminating misleading and harmful information about them as well. This broadens the scope of the investigation, with the DCI focusing on potential cyber harassment, defamation, and the broader impact his online actions have had on the public and individual reputations.

Gaitho’s online activity reportedly included disparaging remarks aimed at senior government officials, potentially inciting public distrust and division. The DCI confirmed that these actions are under further scrutiny, with the relevant files currently being reviewed by the Office of the Director of Public Prosecutions (ODPP). The ODPP will determine the next steps, including possible further charges or legal action based on the findings of the investigation.

In its statement, the DCI has also called upon the public to assist in locating Gaitho, stressing the importance of cooperation from all citizens to ensure that justice is served. The DCI urged anyone with pertinent information about Gaitho’s whereabouts or activities to contact them immediately. The public can reach out anonymously through the DCI’s toll-free hotline at 0800 722 203 or report the information to the nearest police station. The DCI emphasized that all tips would be treated with strict confidentiality.

This case highlights the growing concern over cyber-related crimes in Kenya, particularly in the context of increasing online activity and the misuse of digital platforms to spread falsehoods. With the rise of social media, the government has been under pressure to address issues related to misinformation, defamation, and online harassment. Gaitho’s case is a part of wider efforts by Kenyan authorities to ensure that those who misuse digital platforms for harmful purposes are held accountable under the law.

The DCI’s appeal also reflects the broader challenges in regulating the online space, especially with the rapid growth of digital platforms and the need for proper oversight. In this context, the case against Gaitho is not just about a single individual’s actions but is seen as part of the government’s broader agenda to tackle cybercrime, promote digital literacy, and safeguard citizens from the dangers of online misinformation and harassment.

As authorities continue to monitor Gaitho’s case and investigate his actions, the outcome of this case could set a precedent for how similar issues are handled in the future, particularly with regards to online activism and the legal consequences of engaging in cyber-related offenses.