By Harrison Wanzallah
The Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) has filed an application seeking to detain Jackson Kuria, a prison warder based at Kamiti Maximum Prison, for 21 days to investigate allegations of giving false information and incitement to mutiny.
During a hearing before Chief Magistrate Lucas Onyina, the prosecution argued that Kuria’s detention is necessary to allow the lead investigating officer, Meshack Mutinda, and DCI officials adequate time to analyze materials disseminated from the suspect’s social media account on X. Kuria, who was arrested on January 15, 2025, is accused of spreading false information, a move prosecutors allege could undermine national security.
The prosecution emphasized that Kuria’s training and professional expertise as a prison officer could enable him to interfere with ongoing investigations if released. However, the application faced stiff opposition from lawyers representing the Law Society of Kenya (LSK), who contended that there is no substantial evidence to suggest that Kuria would abscond or interfere with the judicial process. They pointed out that all pertinent materials are already in the custody of investigators, making further detention unnecessary.
The court is set to deliver its ruling at 4 PM today, determining whether Kuria will be held in custody or released on bail or bond as investigations continue.
