Detectives from the Directorate of Criminal Investigations (DCI) have arrested a TikToker for spreading false information through a viral video that shocked Kenyans online.

According to a statement shared by the DCI on its official X account on Friday, October 31, 2025, the content creator was apprehended after saying in a video posted on October 20, 2025, that he had been paid Ksh3.5 million to assassinate a prominent individual.

“Detectives have arrested Roy Otieno Odhiambo for allegedly publishing false information on his TikTok page. In a viral video posted on October 20, 2025, the outspoken TikToker claimed that he had been paid Ksh 3.5 million to assassinate a prominent individual,” the statement reads

The DCI said investigations were immediately launched into the shocking claims, leading to the arrest of the suspect at his hideout in Malindi.

“Following investigations into the allegations, detectives arrested the suspect at his hideout in Malindi. He has since been processed pending arraignment,” the statement added.

Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes Law

The arrest came in the wake of President William Ruto’s assent to eight bills, among them the Computer Misuse and Cybercrimes (Amendment) 2024, which introduced tougher penalties for spreading false, harmful, or misleading information online.

The law sparked widespread debate and concern among various stakeholders.

Also watch: Wetang’ula, Ichung’wah defend cybercrime law.

The new law, which seeks to promote responsible digital communication, gives law enforcement agencies wider powers to act on misinformation and cyberbullying cases that threaten national security or public order.

The bill signed into law by President Ruto on October 15, 2025, also includes provisions that hold digital influencers, bloggers, and online platforms accountable for content that incites, defames, or spreads panic among the public.

Legal consequences

Interior Principal Secretary Raymond Omollo has highlighted the legal consequences of attempting or aiding cybercrime, emphasising that the law treats preparatory acts as serious offences.

He explained that individuals found guilty of attempting cyber offences face severe penalties. “Penalty: Fine up to Ksh7 million, or imprisonment up to 4 years, or both,” Omollo had stated.

This arrest signals the government’s commitment to enforcing the newly signed cybercrimes laws, which many see as a response to the growing wave of online misinformation and digital fraud.

The TikToker’s case is expected to test how the new law will be applied in practice, as authorities intensify their crackdown on harmful online content.

The DCI has urged social media users to use digital platforms responsibly and verify information before sharing it, warning that those found spreading falsehoods will face the full force of the law.