State prosecutors have secured a request to detain Busia Senator Okiya Omtatah and 22 other anti-abduction protesters for 14 more days.
This decision comes as investigations into allegations of incitement to violence, unlawful assembly, and disturbing the peace intensify.
According to a post on X by blogger Cyprian Nyakundi on December 31, prosecutors argue that critical evidence linked to the ongoing #EndAbductionsKE protests lies within the suspects’ mobile phones.
They have requested that the Communication Authority of Kenya extract data from WhatsApp, Facebook, and X accounts belonging to the accused.
Allegedly, messages and photos shared on these platforms may have incited public unrest and fostered opposition against the state.
Adding to their case, prosecutors revealed plans to retrieve CCTV footage from nearby Java and Naivas supermarkets, aiming to shed light on the protesters’ activities during the demonstrations.
They believe this footage, combined with the extracted data, will substantiate claims of coordinated efforts to disrupt peace and stability.
Authorities also expressed concerns about the potential risks of releasing the suspects, suggesting they could resume using social media to incite further unrest.
The #EndAbductionsKE protests, which have gripped national attention, emerged as a response to alleged enforced disappearances and abductions.
The protesters, including prominent leaders like Senator Omtatah, have been vocal in criticising the state’s handling of the crisis, demanding justice and accountability for missing persons.
As the investigation unfolds, the detention of Omtatah and his team has sparked widespread debate on the balance between safeguarding national security and protecting the right to peaceful assembly and expression.
The court’s decision to grant prosecutors additional time underscores the gravity of the allegations and the high stakes surrounding the protests.
All eyes remain on the authorities as they navigate this contentious issue amidst rising tensions.
