Popular TikTok user Kakan Maiyo has been released on a KSh10,000 police bond following his arrest earlier this week on allegations of inciting violence against law enforcement officers amid ongoing anti-government protests across the country.
Maiyo, who was arrested on Wednesday, July 9, was initially booked at Muthaiga Police Station after a video posted to his TikTok account went viral. According to the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI), the content allegedly called for attacks against police officers and their families — prompting swift action by authorities.
“Detectives trailed the suspect to Kimathi House, where he was operating a discreet office under the name LetaPeleka Logistics. He is currently in custody undergoing processing, pending arraignment,” the DCI stated in an earlier communication.
The DCI indicated that Maiyo’s arrest is part of a broader nationwide crackdown on individuals accused of spreading hate speech and inciting unrest, especially during the wave of Gen Z-led protests that have swept across major cities in Kenya since early July.
President William Ruto, in a hardline address delivered shortly after Maiyo’s arrest, equated attacks on police officers with acts of terrorism, declaring that such behavior would be treated as a “declaration of war” against the state.
“Nimewavumilia ya kutosha, sasa mtanikoma,” Ruto warned during a public address. “This is no longer a protest; this is anarchy… We will crush it without fear or favour.”
The President also issued controversial shoot-to-disable orders, directing law enforcement officers to shoot protesters in the legs if caught looting or destroying property during demonstrations.
“Let them be shot in the leg and go to the hospital as they head to court,” Ruto said. “Destroying people’s property is not right.”
While the state has defended its actions as necessary for the protection of national order and security, rights groups have raised concerns over the rising number of arrests targeting content creators, activists, and youth organizers. Critics argue the clampdown risks criminalizing free speech and peaceful dissent.
Maiyo’s case has sparked heated debate online, with supporters claiming he is being targeted for voicing legitimate frustrations shared by many young Kenyans. Opponents argue that rhetoric encouraging violence — if proven — must be met with accountability.
As investigations continue, it remains unclear whether Maiyo will be formally charged. The DCI said it is reviewing the video evidence and gathering witness statements to determine the next legal steps.
Written by Were Kelly
