At no time was I harmed or victimised by DCI during grilling - Francis Gaitho

"I have committed to comply with any civil relief including a retraction and an apology."

In Summary
  • Gaitho on Wednesday presented himself to the officers after a dramatic arrest of journalist Macharia Gaitho in a case of mistaken identity.
  • Police said they wanted to question Francis in relation to a statement he issued regarding the identity of the prime suspect in the Kware murders.
Francis Gaitho before senior principal magistrate Robinson Ondieki at Milimani Law Courts on July 18, 2024
Francis Gaitho before senior principal magistrate Robinson Ondieki at Milimani Law Courts on July 18, 2024
Image: DOUGLAS OKIDDY

Social media commentator Francis Gaitho has shared his experience in the hands of police after presenting himself to the DCI for questioning.

Francis on Wednesday presented himself to the officers after a dramatic arrest of veteran journalist Macharia Gaitho in his stead in a case of mistaken identity.

Police said they wanted to question Francis in relation to a statement he issued regarding the identity of the prime suspect in the Kware killings.

In a statement, Francis said he was at no point harassed or victimised by police during the interrogation.

"Yesterday 17th July 2024, I presented myself at the DCI Headquarters following reports that I was being sought after due to a tweet related to the Kware massacre.

Upon arriving we were referred to the DCI Nairobi Area where the team processing my statement were awaiting, led by DCI Head of Serious Crime Unit Michael Sang.

My lawyers led by Senior Counsel John Khaminwa, Dudley Ochiel and Austine Katinya were present during the entire interrogation, as I was informed that the complaint arose from sharing the identity of one person linked to the unfortunate happenings at the Kware dumpsite.

Through my counsel, I have committed to comply with any civil relief measures that the complainant may pursue, including a retraction and an apology.

At this moment I’d like to sincerely thank my lawyers John Khaminwa, Dudley Ochiel and Austine Katinya for their speedy response to the matter. I also thank the DCI for their professionalism and courtesy throughout the process. At no time was I harmed or victimized.

I also stand in solidarity with my brother and comrade Ali Nur who was apprehended and detained around the same time, and take this opportunity to call for the release of all other protestors still missing or behind bars. 

I would also like to thank Kenyans of goodwill who stood in solidarity with their comrades in the struggle, either through hashtags, monetary support, legal aid or even shielding those evading persecution.

You are the real heroes."

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