Detectives have arrested a TikTok content creator accused of spreading false information about an alleged assassination plot, the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) confirmed on Friday evening.
In a statement, the DCI identified the suspect as Roy Otieno Odhiambo, who allegedly posted a video on October 20 claiming he had been paid Ksh.3.5 million to assassinate a prominent Kenyan.
The video quickly went viral, drawing widespread concern and prompting an immediate investigation.
According to the DCI, detectives traced Odhiambo to a hideout in Malindi, where he was arrested after days of surveillance. “The suspect has since been processed and is awaiting arraignment,” the agency said.
The DCI said preliminary findings indicate that the video’s claims were fabricated and intended to attract online attention. Authorities warned that such misinformation can cause unnecessary public alarm and amount to a serious criminal offence.
Odhiambo’s arrest underscores growing scrutiny of social media activity in Kenya, where digital content creators have increasingly found themselves at odds with authorities over unverified or sensational claims.
The DCI has urged the public to verify information before sharing it online, reiterating that spreading falsehoods that threaten public order or security will not go unpunished.
